Vizhinjam Will Be Kerala’s Gateway to Global Trade: CM Pinarayi Vijayan

Thiruvananthapuram: “The commissioning of the Vizhinjam International Seaport marks a historic milestone for Kerala and the nation,” said Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, announcing that Prime Minister Narendra Modi will dedicate the port to the nation on May 2.
He highlighted that Vizhinjam’s transformation into India’s first semi-automated deep water port became possible after arbitration hurdles were cleared and a revised agreement was reached. “This breakthrough allowed us to fast-track construction and bring the project to life,” the Chief Minister said. He added that the port, which began trial runs on July 13, 2024, and started commercial operations on December 3, has already welcomed 265 ships and handled 5.48 lakh TEUs of cargo, showcasing its immense potential.
Out of the total project cost of 8,867.14 crore, the state government has contributed 5,595.34 crore. “From 2034 onwards, the state will receive a share of the revenue generated through cargo movement,” Vijayan noted. “With full-scale completion expected by 2028, Vizhinjam will rise as a key global transshipment hub. Its strategic growth will not only boost India's cargo movement but also open up immense developmental possibilities for Kerala,” he concluded.