PM Modi on Friday inaugurated the much-anticipated Vizhinjam International Seaport in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, hailing it as a “historic milestone” for India’s maritime and trade infrastructure. Developed by Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone Ltd (APSEZ)—India’s largest port operator and a key entity within the Adani Group—the project marks one of the most ambitious public-private partnerships in India’s port development history.
The ₹8,900 crore deep-sea port project, executed in collaboration with the Government of Kerala, is designed to position India as a major hub in international shipping and logistics. The commissioning ceremony was attended by several high-profile dignitaries, including Kerala Governor Rajendra Arlekar, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, Adani Group Chairman Gautam Adani, and Thiruvananthapuram MP Shashi Tharoor.
“A Symbol of New-Age Development”: PM Modi
Speaking at the public event, PM Modi emphasized the port’s strategic and economic importance:
“Vizhinjam port is a bridge between opportunity and nature—a symbol of new-age development. It will bring not only economic stability to Kerala but also strengthen India’s position in global trade.”
He added that the port’s natural depth of nearly 20 meters and proximity to major international maritime routes make it uniquely suited for container transshipment, significantly reducing India’s dependence on foreign ports like Colombo, Singapore, and Dubai.
India’s First Dedicated Container Transshipment Port
The Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) noted that Vizhinjam is India’s first fully dedicated container transshipment port, equipped with world-class infrastructure and capable of handling Ultra Large Container Ships (ULCS). Its development is seen as a crucial part of India’s Viksit Bharat 2047 vision, aimed at transforming the nation into a global logistics powerhouse.
“With Vizhinjam, India takes a bold step toward maritime self-reliance. It will reduce logistics costs, improve export competitiveness, and offer world-class facilities to global shipping lines,” the PMO statement added.
Economic and Strategic Benefits
- Boost to Regional Economy: The port is expected to generate thousands of direct and indirect jobs and attract large-scale investment in related sectors such as warehousing, logistics, ship repair, and maritime services.
- Reduced Transshipment Dependency: India currently relies heavily on foreign ports for transshipment, with over 75% of transshipped cargo routed through foreign terminals. Vizhinjam aims to bring a significant portion of this business back to Indian shores.
- Sustainability and Smart Infrastructure: The port includes modern features such as an automated cargo handling system, green energy integration, and digitally managed logistics, aligning with India’s climate and technology goals.
Strategic Maritime Corridor for the Future
The Vizhinjam port’s location—just 10 nautical miles from the international East-West shipping route—gives it unmatched access to global maritime traffic. It is also strategically positioned to complement India’s other port initiatives under the Sagarmala Programme, which focuses on port-led development to drive economic growth.
Gautam Adani, speaking at the event, said:
“This port is not just an infrastructure asset—it’s a geopolitical and economic game-changer for India. Vizhinjam will redefine how the world sees India’s maritime potential.”
Bipartisan Support and Local Significance
Interestingly, despite political rivalries, leaders across party lines, including Congress MP Shashi Tharoor, have lauded the port’s completion, citing its immense potential for transforming Kerala into a global maritime hub.
Conclusion: A Vision Realized
The inauguration of the Vizhinjam International Seaport signals India’s commitment to becoming a major player in global trade logistics. As the country aims to double its share in global exports and reduce dependence on international transshipment hubs, projects like Vizhinjam are pivotal to that future.
“This port is not just a gateway to trade; it is a gateway to a Viksit Bharat (Developed India),” PM Modi concluded.
The port is also expected to serve as a catalyst for infrastructure upgrades across southern India, spurring regional development.
Educational institutions and skill-development centers focused on maritime trades are likely to emerge around the port zone.
Experts believe Vizhinjam could soon rival some of the busiest ports in Asia, reshaping India’s shipping dynamics.
