Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan declared that the Vizhinjam International Seaport will generate substantial employment opportunities and drive large-scale local development, ultimately benefiting the entire state of Kerala. Speaking at the inauguration of the port's second phase of construction on Saturday, Vijayan emphasized the port's growing significance for the state's economic landscape.
Vizhinjam Port: A Response to Critics and a New Era for Kerala
Vijayan addressed past criticisms, stating, "Our state has often been criticized as a place where nothing happens. There were those who mocked us, saying, 'This is not possible for Kerala'. The Vizhinjam project is our response to those criticisms and mockery." He highlighted that the era of relying on others for cargo movement is over, with Kerala emerging as a major force in India's logistics sector.
Operational Milestones and Future Prospects
The chief minister revealed that more than 50 ships operate from the port monthly, with the achievement of 1,000 ships anticipated soon. "Vizhinjam has surpassed many ports that started operations before it," he noted. With central government recognition for its immigration checkpoint, the port is set to become a key crew change hub, while luxury cruise ships are expected to boost the tourism sector.
Upon completion of the expansion, the port will handle ships with a capacity of 28,840 containers and anchor five mother ships simultaneously. Vijayan projected that Vizhinjam will evolve into an international transshipment hub serving ports in Africa, the Middle East, and beyond. Road-based cargo movement is slated to commence in the coming days.
Substantial Investments and National Benefits
Vijayan disclosed that the state government invested approximately Rs 5,500 crores in the first phase, asserting, "No other state government made such a large investment for a port. We must view this as a project that benefits the nation." He acknowledged the foundational efforts of former Chief Minister Oommen Chandy, with the vision continued under his leadership.
Union Minister Sonowal on Kerala's Maritime Transformation
Union Minister of Ports Sarbananda Sonowal reported that Kerala is implementing 56 Sagarmala and related projects with a total investment exceeding Rs 24,000 crore. "Of this, 20 projects worth Rs 5,300 crore were already completed, while 36 projects worth Rs 18,000 crores are under various stages of implementation," he said.
Sonowal added that the state has five national waterways, with three—NW3, NW8, and NW9—already operational. Significant investments have been made in permanent terminals, roads, navigational infrastructure, and cruise jetties. He praised Kerala's strategic location, skilled human resources, and strong institutional capacity, noting its special place in the country's maritime transformation.
Adani's Major Commitment to Vizhinjam's Growth
Karan Adani, Managing Director of Adani Ports & SEZ Ltd, announced an additional investment of Rs 16,000 crore under Phase II, bringing the cumulative commitment to Rs 30,000 crore. "Vizhinjam will scale from a capacity of 10 lakh TEUs to 57 lakh TEUs by 2029. This is the largest investment committed by any business house in the state," he stated.
Adani recognized the continuity of the port's vision, carried forward with exceptional resolve under Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, building on the initial groundwork laid by former Chief Minister Oommen Chandy.
