The total investment for Vizhinjam Port project is around Rs 8,867 crore, with the state and Central governments allocating Rs 5,595 crore and Rs 818 crore respectively.
The Vizhinjam Port in Kerala, owned by the Adani Group, has officially welcomed its first cargo ship, in a boost to the nation's maritime logistics industry. The mothership, 'San Fernando', arrived at Vizhinjam International Seaport on July 11 and was greeted with a water salute by four tugs, which escorted it to the dock.
Adani Ports Managing Director Karan Adani called the development a "glorious achievement in Indian maritime history".
"San Fernando – now berthed at our harbour is a symbol of a new, glorious achievement in Indian maritime history. It is a messenger that will tell the world that India's first transshipment terminal and the largest deepwater port has begun commercial operations," he said.
- India's first deepwater transhipment port, Vizhinjam international seaport, received its first mothership, MV San Fernando, carrying 2,000 containers.
- Vizhinjam port is the first international deepwater transhipment port in the Indian subcontinent, with a natural depth of over 18 metres, scalable up to 20 metres.
- The port's depth allows for the entry of large vessels and motherships, making it a crucial gateway for international trade.
- The berthing of MV San Fernando was part of a trial run before the port opens for commercial operations.
- Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan formally welcomed the vessel, along with Union Minister for Ports, Shipping, and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal and other dignitaries.
- The international port is being developed by Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone Ltd (APSEZ) under a public-private partnership model.
- The total investment for the project is around Rs 8,867 crore, with the state and Central governments allocating Rs 5,595 crore and Rs 818 crore respectively.
- Vizhinjam will become India's first semi-automated port, equipped with modern equipment and advanced automation and IT systems.
- The port is expected to be fully commissioned in September or October 2024, after being delayed due to land acquisition issues.
- The project has been in development for years, with successive governments working on its execution.
- The port is expected to become a key player in regional trade, serving as a gateway for trade between Southeast Asia, the Middle East, and Africa.