A significant milestone was registered in India’s maritime history on Friday when the Union Minister of Ports, Shipping & Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal, received the first Mother Ship ‘MV San Fernando’ at Vizhinjam, Kerala. This event signals the commencement of operations at India’s inaugural deep water container transhipment port.
Vizhinjam Port: State-of-the-Art Infrastructure
Vizhinjam Port, equipped with advanced automation, welcomes ships like the MV San Fernando with a capacity of up to 9000 TEUs. It stands as India’s first automated port, facilitating quick vessel turnaround and capable of handling megamax containerships.
Sonowal emphasized the significance of this milestone, attributing it to the ‘Make in India’ vision and a successful Public-Private Partnership (PPP) collaboration among the Government of Kerala, Government of India, and Adani Port SEZ. This partnership has culminated in a transformative asset for India’s maritime sector, showcasing India’s capability to build world-class port infrastructure.
Strategic Importance and Economic Impact
Vizhinjam Port, located near Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, is a strategic maritime initiative with an investment exceeding Rs 18,000 crores. As India’s first Greenfield port project developed under PPP, it enhances trade efficiency by reducing transit times for vessels along international shipping routes. The port’s deep-water capabilities make it ideal for large cargo and container ships, supporting economic growth through job creation and increased investment.
Future Prospects and National Maritime Strategy
The operationalization of Vizhinjam Port enhances India’s competitiveness against transhipment hubs like Colombo and Singapore, positioning it as a pivotal player in regional trade dynamics.
Commitment to Maritime Development: The Sagarmala Project
Shri Sonowal highlighted ongoing efforts under the Sagarmala project, with projects worth over Rs 24,000 crores in Kerala alone. These initiatives underscore the government’s commitment to modernize and empower India’s maritime sector amid global disruptions, offering viable alternatives to global shipping lines.
The inauguration of Vizhinjam Port represents a transformative leap for India’s maritime infrastructure, aligning with national developmental goals and enhancing global trade connectivity. With its cutting-edge facilities and strategic location, Vizhinjam is poised to catalyze economic growth not only in Kerala but across the entire South Asian region.