Sea Port Capacity doubling for India and many more
Here are some key highlights about Vizhinjam Port:
Strategic Location: Positioned on major international shipping routes, Vizhinjam is an ideal entry point for the world's largest ships, which previously went to ports like Singapore.
Public-Private Partnership (PPP) Model: The port is being developed under a PPP model, with Adani Group leading the project. The total project cost is approximately ₹9,000 crore, with 62% funding from the central government and less than 10% from the state government.
Technological Advancements: Equipped with advanced automation, modern tools, and high-end technical handling systems, Vizhinjam Port is expected to be fully operational by the last quarter of this year.
Capacity and Infrastructure: The port has 30 berths and can handle megamax container ships, starting with a capacity of 4.10 million TEUs per year. This will significantly contribute to doubling India's port capacity.
Competition and Impact: Vizhinjam Port will compete with major transshipment hubs like Colombo, Singapore, and Dubai. Currently, 61% of India's export/import traffic is transshipped through these nearby ports. The new port will help ease container movement, reduce waiting times, and provide congestion-free, faster turnaround times.
Economic and Strategic Benefits: The port's strategic location and capabilities are expected to add substantial value to India's maritime trade, especially amid challenges like the Red Sea situation and container shortages. It aligns with the Indian government's Maritime Vision 2030, aimed at developing mega ports and boosting the nation's maritime infrastructure.
Captain GN Hari, a native of Thiruvananthapuram, navigated the San Fernando, symbolizing local pride and the significance of this achievement for the region and the country. The Vizhinjam Port is poised to be a game-changer, enhancing India's maritime trade capabilities and reducing dependency on external transshipment hubs.