India Launches Its First Deepwater Container Transshipment Port

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi commissioned the country’s first deepwater container transshipment port, Vizhinjam International Seaport in Kerala, on April 2, 2025.

The project, which was completed at a cost of ₹8,867 crore, was built under a public-private partnership between the Adani Group and the Kerala government.

Positioned just 10 nautical miles from the key east-west global shipping route, it is expected to significantly reduce India’s dependence on foreign transshipment hubs like Colombo, Singapore, and Salalah.

The port has a natural draft depth of over 20 meters and can accommodate ultra-large container Vessels (ULCVs) without requiring extensive dredging.

Speaking at the launch ceremony, PM Modi described the port as a “symbol of new-age development,” and highlighted its strategic importance in reshaping India’s maritime logistics and global trade footprint.

Vizhinjam port began commercial operations in December 2024 and has already handled 285 vessels and 5.93 lakh TEUs, achieving 110% of its initial capacity.

Among them were some of the world’s largest container ships, including the MSC Turkiye (24,346 TEUs) and MSC Claude Girardet (24,116 TEUs), showcasing the port’s capacity and operational strength.

The port features India’s first semi-automated infrastructure with 24 fully automated yard cranes and remotely operated ship-to-shore cranes, promising reduced turnaround time and increased efficiency.

Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan welcomed the Prime Minister, calling the port’s inauguration a “proud moment” and a new beginning for Kerala’s development.

He also paid tribute to victims of the recent Pahalgam terrorist attack, calling for unity against divisive forces.

The port’s breakwater, stretching 2,960 meters and built at depths of up to 20 meters, is being hailed as the deepest and most complex ever constructed in the country.

The Ministry of Environment has cleared the second and third phases of the project, which will see Adani Ports invest an additional ₹9,560 crore.

By 2028, Vizhinjam’s annual capacity is expected to expand from 1 million to 3 million TEUs. Once all four phases are completed, its total capacity will reach 6.2 million TEUs.

Officials say nearly 67% of the port’s workforce is from Kerala, with the project generating significant local employment.

Reference: The Hindu, First Post

Source: Maritime Shipping News