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Vizhinjam Port Phase 2 Launch Cements Kerala's Global Maritime Hub Status

Kerala has formally launched the second phase of the Vizhinjam International Seaport, marking a major expansion in its maritime infrastructure. The expansion will extend the container berth to 2,000 meters and allow the port to handle the world's largest container vessels. Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan highlighted the port's rapid success, having crossed its initial annual capacity target within ten months of operation. Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal emphasized the port's role as a strategic gateway and a symbol of India's growing maritime strength.

Key Points: Kerala's Vizhinjam Port Phase 2 Launched, Boosts Global Trade

  • Phase 2 doubles berth length to 2km
  • Can handle 28,840 TEU mega-vessels
  • First Indian port with women crane operators
  • Crossed 1M TEU capacity in 10 months
  • Poised to become international transshipment hub
2 min read

Vizhinjam Port Phase 2 launch puts Kerala firmly on global maritime map

Kerala launches Vizhinjam Port Phase 2, expanding capacity to handle world's largest ships and transforming it into a key international transshipment hub.

Vizhinjam Port Phase 2 launch puts Kerala firmly on global maritime map
"Vizhinjam has already etched the state's name into the world's shipping routes. - Pinarayi Vijayan"

Thiruvananthapuram, Jan 24

Kerala, on Saturday, marked a decisive moment in its infrastructure journey with the formal launch of Phase II of the Vizhinjam International Seaport, a project that has rapidly transformed the state's standing in global maritime logistics.

Addressing the gathering, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan said the port's progress decisively counters the long-held criticism that "nothing happens in Kerala", asserting that Vizhinjam has already etched the state's name into the world's shipping routes.

"Operational for nearly more than a year, Vizhinjam has emerged as a rare success story in port development. The first mothership berthed in July 2024, and the port was formally dedicated to the nation in May 2025. Designed initially for an annual capacity of one million TEUs, the port crossed that milestone within 10 months, handling 615 vessels and 1.32 million containers in its first year -- a feat few global ports can claim. In December 2025 alone, it processed 1.21 lakh TEUs, with some of the world's largest and deepest-draft container vessels calling at the port," Vijayan added.

Union Minister for Shipping, Ports and Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal, said that Kerala occupies a special place in India's maritime future, describing the state as a vital gateway between India and the world.

He noted that under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, shipping has gained renewed strategic importance, with India's maritime strength expanding significantly over the past decade.

Vizhinjam, Union Minister Sonowal said, stands as a "shining symbol" of this transformation, underlined by its strong operational performance.

Phase II of the Vizhinjam Port marks a major capacity expansion.

The container berth will be extended from 800 to 2,000 metres, making it the longest in the country, while the breakwater will grow from 2.96 to 3.88 km.

Twelve new ship-to-shore cranes and 27 yard cranes will be added, enabling the port to handle next-generation vessels of up to 28,840 TEUs and berth five motherships simultaneously.

Union Minister Sonowal highlighted that Vizhinjam is the first port in India to employ women as automated crane operators, setting a national benchmark.

With immigration clearance secured and road connectivity to the national highway completed, Vizhinjam is poised to evolve from a national transshipment terminal into a full-fledged international transshipment hub, reinforcing Kerala's growing role in global maritime trade.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

S
Sarah B
As someone in the logistics sector, the numbers are staggering. Handling 28,840 TEU vessels is world-class infrastructure. The employment generation, especially for women crane operators, is a fantastic social impact. Hope the local communities benefit from the ancillary industries.
P
Priya S
While the development is impressive, I hope the environmental concerns around the coastline and the impact on fisherfolk are being addressed seriously. Big projects must not come at the cost of local livelihoods and ecology. Sustainable growth is key.
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Rohit P
Finally, a project that counters the narrative that Kerala is only good for protests and strikes. This shows what can be achieved with political will and execution. Kudos to all involved. Now, improve the last-mile road and rail connectivity to make the most of it.
M
Michael C
The strategic importance is huge. This strengthens India's maritime position in the Indian Ocean. Having a deep-water port so close to international shipping lanes is a massive advantage for national security and trade. A well-executed project.
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Ananya R
Love the fact that women are operating the automated cranes! Breaking stereotypes in a traditionally male-dominated field. This is true empowerment. Hope to see more such initiatives. The port's success story is inspiring for the youth of the state.

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