📷 Image Credits: NDTV
The Vizhinjam Port in Kerala recently marked a significant milestone as it welcomed its first mothership, ‘San Fernando’, amidst much fanfare. Adani Ports Managing Director, Karan Adani, expressed his pride in this achievement, calling it a momentous occasion in Indian maritime history. He highlighted the port’s advanced container handling technology, positioning Vizhinjam as one of the most technologically sophisticated transshipment ports in South Asia.
The Vizhinjam Port, owned by the Adani Group, is strategically located near Thiruvananthapuram and is set to become a key player in India’s maritime trade landscape. With a focus on transshipment traffic, the port will not only cater to India’s needs but also serve as a vital link in major international trade routes connecting the US, Europe, Africa, and the Indian subcontinent.
The MD of Adani Ports emphasized that Vizhinjam’s development is a collaborative effort between the Kerala government and private entities, with a projected investment of Rs 20,000 crore by 2029. The port’s state-of-the-art infrastructure, including an automated system and modern container handling equipment, will boost employment opportunities and ancillary developments in the region.
The commissioning of Vizhinjam International Seaport is expected to reduce India’s reliance on foreign ports like Colombo, Dubai, and Singapore for transshipment, positioning India as a transshipment hub in the region. The port’s semi-automated operations are slated to be fully operational by September or October 2024, enhancing India’s maritime logistics industry and cementing its position on the global maritime map.
In conclusion, the Vizhinjam Port’s successful welcoming of the first mothership signifies a transformative moment for Indian maritime history. With advanced technology, strategic positioning, and significant investments, Vizhinjam is poised to shape the future of maritime trade in India and boost the country’s standing in global logistics.
