Almost ten years after its conception, the Adani Vizhinjam Port has achieved a significant milestone, entering its trial phase on July 12. This landmark project, a collaboration between the Kerala government and the Adani Group under a public-private partnership, is on track for full commissioning later this year, marking a new era for India's maritime industry.
The journey of Adani Vizhinjam Port began when Adani Ports and Logistics won the bid to develop the project, leading to the formation of Adani Vizhinjam Port Private Limited (AVPPL). Construction kicked off in December 2015, following a concession agreement signed with the Department of Ports, Government of Kerala, in August of the same year.
Located in Thiruvananthapuram at the southern tip of India, Vizhinjam Port boasts a strategic position along critical global shipping routes, including the Suez Canal and the Strait of Malacca. This port stands out as India's deepest, with a draught of 20 meters. This depth allows it to accommodate the world's largest container ships, which have previously bypassed Indian ports in favor of deeper foreign ports.
On July 11, the port welcomed its first large vessel, the 'San Fernando' from Maersk, signaling the start of trial operations. This 300-meter-long ship, carrying 9,000 twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs), docked at the port as part of its route to Colombo. This event marked a significant milestone, celebrated with an inaugural ceremony that underscored the port's readiness to handle major maritime traffic.
The Vizhinjam Port is not just an infrastructural marvel but also a significant economic driver. Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan highlighted that the project is expected to create over 5,000 direct jobs. The combined investment from the state and central governments amounts to Rs 8,867 crore, reflecting the project's national importance.
Karan Adani, Managing Director of Adani Ports and SEZ Limited, announced that Phase 1 of the port would be completed ahead of schedule. He outlined ambitious expansion plans to increase the operational dock length and container yard capacity. By 2028-29, the total investment in the Vizhinjam Port is projected to reach Rs 20,000 crore, significantly enhancing its capacity and operational efficiency.
The Adani Vizhinjam Port stands as a monumental example of a successful large-scale public-private partnership. It sets a precedent for future infrastructure projects in India, showcasing how collaboration between government and private entities can lead to substantial economic and strategic benefits.
As the Adani Vizhinjam Port moves closer to full commissioning, it promises to transform India's maritime landscape. The port's ability to handle the world's largest container ships will enhance India's position in global trade, reducing dependency on foreign ports and boosting the country's economic growth.
The successful trial phase marks the beginning of a new chapter for Vizhinjam Port. With its strategic location, deep waters, and robust infrastructure, the port is poised to become a key player in international shipping, driving economic development and creating new opportunities for India.