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Key Points

Vizhinjam International Seaport has achieved a major milestone by welcoming its 500th vessel in just ten months. This feat was marked by the arrival of the MSC Verona, the deepest draft container ship ever serviced in India. The port has already handled 1.1 million TEUs, surpassing its projected annual capacity. Its strategic location and natural depth are positioning it as a key player in global shipping routes.

Key Points: Vizhinjam Port Welcomes 500 Ships in 10 Months Cementing Global Role

  • Vizhinjam handled 500 vessels in just ten months since its December 2024 launch
  • The port set a record by berthing MSC Verona with a 17.1 metre draft
  • It has already processed 1.1 million TEUs, exceeding its annual capacity target
  • The port's natural depth and location attract 28 Ultra Large Container Vessels
2 min read

500 ships in 10 months, Vizhinjam proves its global importance: Kerala Minister

Kerala's Vizhinjam port, operated by Adani, hits 500 vessels and a 17.1m draft record, handling 1.1M TEUs to become India's premier transshipment hub.

"“Achieving this remarkable feat in just ten months since launching operations is truly noteworthy” - V.N. Vasavan, Kerala Ports Minister"

Thiruvananthapuram, Sep 23

The arrival of 500 ships in ten months proves the importance of Vizhinjam, India's first deep-water, multi-purpose, container transshipment port, in global cargo shipping.

“Achieving this remarkable feat in just ten months since launching operations is truly noteworthy,” said Kerala Ports Minister V.N. Vasavan on Tuesday, as Vizhinjam International Seaport scripted a new chapter in India’s maritime history.

Developed and operated by Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone (APSEZ), Vizhinjam handled its 500th vessel on Tuesday, coinciding with another landmark -- the berthing of MSC Verona with a draft of 17.1 metres, the deepest draft container vessel ever serviced at an Indian port.

Vasavan noted that “with MSC Verona anchoring at 17.1 metres, Vizhinjam has created two records in a single day, growing steadily with firm steps.”

Since commencing commercial operations in December 2024, Vizhinjam has handled 1.1 million TEUs (twenty-foot equivalent units), already surpassing its projected annual capacity.

Of the 500 vessels serviced so far, 28 were Ultra Large Container Vessels (ULCVs) -- the highest number received at any single Indian port.

Highlighting the pride the port evokes among Malayalis worldwide, Vasavan added, “No matter which part of the world one travels to, the sight of the tagline ‘Vizhinjam – Thiruvananthapuram – Kerala – India’ brings immense pride to every Malayali.”

Industry experts underline that Vizhinjam’s natural advantages, 18-20 metres of depth and minimal littoral drift, make it uniquely positioned to handle the world’s largest container ships.

Located close to major east-west shipping lanes, the port is rapidly emerging as India’s premier deep-water transshipment hub, reducing reliance on foreign ports and strengthening the nation’s presence in global trade routes.

With milestones coming thick and fast, Vizhinjam continues to cement its reputation as the 'Wonder Port of India', underscoring India’s evolving maritime prowess and expanding economic horizons.

The port is located close to the famed beach destination, Kovalam, located about 14 km from the state capital city.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

R
Rohit P
Excellent progress! But I hope the local fishermen and residents who were displaced for this project are also benefiting. Development should be inclusive. The government must ensure proper rehabilitation and job opportunities for affected families.
A
Arjun K
This is a game-changer for Indian logistics! No more depending on foreign ports for transshipment. The 17.1m draft capability is impressive - can handle the biggest ships in the world. Make in India gets a major boost! 💪
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Sarah B
As someone in international trade, this is fantastic news. Faster turnaround times and reduced costs will make Indian exports more competitive. Hope they maintain this momentum and expand capacity further.
M
Michael C
While the numbers are impressive, I'm concerned about the environmental impact near Kovalam beach. Hope there's proper monitoring of marine ecosystem and pollution control measures in place. Development shouldn't come at nature's cost.
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Kavya N
Kerala showing how it's done! 🎉 This port will create so many direct and indirect employment opportunities. Plus the tourism boost from increased international visibility. Perfect example of public-private partnership success story.
V
Vikram M
1.1 million TEUs in less than a year is phenomenal! Beating annual projections already. This

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