On Friday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi officially inaugurated the Vizhinjam International Seaport in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala. Developed by Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone Ltd (APSEZ), this state-of-the-art facility marks a significant milestone in India’s maritime infrastructure. As the nation’s first deep-water dedicated container transshipment port, Vizhinjam is poised to enhance India’s position in global shipping and trade.

Strategic Location and Infrastructure
Situated approximately 10 nautical miles from major international shipping routes, Vizhinjam’s location is strategically advantageous. The port boasts a natural depth of 24 meters, accommodating ultra-large container ships (ULCS) without the need for extensive dredging. This depth facilitates efficient docking and turnaround times, positioning Vizhinjam as a competitive alternative to regional ports in Colombo, Dubai, and Singapore .

The port’s infrastructure includes advanced technologies such as eight ship-to-shore cranes and 23 cantilevered rail-mounted gantry cranes. These facilities enable high-efficiency cargo handling, setting Vizhinjam apart from other Indian ports, including the highly advanced Mundra Port .

Capacity and Expansion Plans
The ₹8,867 crore project commenced operations in July 2024 and has since handled approximately 250 container ships. The first phase, completed in December 2024, has an annual capacity of 1 million TEUs (Twenty-Foot Equivalent Units). Subsequent phases aim to increase capacity to 5 million TEUs, with full-scale operations expected by 2028–29 .

Adani Ports plans to invest an additional ₹12,000 crore to further enhance the port’s capacity and infrastructure. This expansion is anticipated to triple the port’s cargo handling capacity, reinforcing its role as a critical hub in India’s maritime network .

Economic Impact and Revenue Projections
The development of Vizhinjam is expected to have a significant economic impact. The Kerala government has secured a revenue share of ₹35,000 crore over the 36-year operational period, a substantial increase from the initial projection of ₹6,300 crore. Additionally, the state anticipates GST revenues of ₹29,000 crore and increased corporate income tax collections, further bolstering Kerala’s economy .

Role in India’s Trade and Logistics
Vizhinjam’s strategic location and advanced infrastructure position it as a key player in India’s trade and logistics sector. The port’s inclusion in the Jade Service (JADE) of MSC, the world’s largest shipping company, underscores its global significance. This service connects major ports worldwide, catering to large vessels and high volumes of containers, thereby enhancing Vizhinjam’s connectivity and operational efficiency .

Furthermore, the port’s development aligns with the Government of India’s Sagarmala Programme, which aims to promote port-led development and reduce logistics costs through minimal infrastructure investment .

Conclusion
The inauguration of Vizhinjam International Seaport marks a transformative development in India’s maritime infrastructure. With its strategic location, advanced facilities, and ambitious expansion plans, the port is set to play a pivotal role in enhancing India’s global shipping presence and economic growth. As operations scale up, Vizhinjam is poised to become a cornerstone of India’s trade and logistics network, contributing significantly to the nation’s economic prosperity