Vizhinjam Port Set to Launch Gateway Container Operations

Kerala Port Minister V N Vasavan announced Tuesday that Vizhinjam International Port will commence gateway container operations within the next four months, expanding beyond its current transshipment role.

Addressing the state Assembly during Question Hour, Vasavan responded to CPI(M) MLA V Joy’s query, stating, “The gateway container operations, taking cargo to and from the port, will begin within four months. The arrangements of the Customs Department and steps to install container scanners are progressing there in a way to make the operations begin within four months.”

The minister highlighted the port’s meteoric rise, noting that 215 ships have docked since its trial run began in July 2024, handling 4,22,846 TEUs (Twenty-foot Equivalent Units). “Handling 78,833 TEUs from 40 vessels, Vizhinjam Port has become the top port in the country in February this year,” he added, outpacing giants like Mundra and Nhava Sheva.

Developed by Adani Ports under a public-private partnership at Rs 8,867 crore, the deep-water hub received its commercial commissioning certificate on December 4, 2024, following environmental clearance last week for Phases II and III—ensuring full completion by 2028, per CM Pinarayi Vijayan.

Currently limited to transshipment—transferring cargo between ships—Vizhinjam’s shift to gateway operations will see it handle direct imports and exports, boosting Kerala’s trade footprint. The state awaits PM Narendra Modi’s availability for the formal commissioning, a milestone delayed since December.

With its 20-meter natural draft and proximity to global shipping lanes, Vizhinjam is poised to capture 75% of India’s transshipment cargo, long dominated by Colombo and Singapore, marking a transformative leap for India’s maritime ambitions.