Thiruvananthapuram, Dec 18 (UNI) The next phase of construction at Vizhinjam International Seaport is set to begin in January 2026, following a stellar first year of commercial operations that far exceeded expectations.
Since commencing operations on December 3, 2024, the port has handled nearly four lakh containers above than the projected target, receiving 636 vessels and managing close to 14 lakh containers, well over the projected 10 lakh for the first year.
Some of the world’s largest container vessels, including MSC Turkey, MSC Irina and MSC Verona, which had not previously called at ports along the Asian coastline, have berthed at Vizhinjam, Kerala Ports Minister V N Vasavan said.
The Minister said preparations have been completed to launch the second, third and fourth phases of construction. As part of the second phase, the existing 800-metre berth will be extended by 1,200 metres to a total length of 2,000 metres, enabling the simultaneous berthing of large container vessels.
The breakwater will also be extended from the present 2.96 km by another 920 metres to over 3.9 km. The inauguration of the next phase of construction is planned for the second week of January, with the final date to be announced after consultations with the Chief Minister and representatives of the Adani Group.
According to the revised agreement, the second, third and fourth phases of the port will be completed by 2028. Once fully operational, Vizhinjam is expected to emerge as a major global transshipment hub.
The Minister said the temporary approach road connecting the port will soon be completed and inaugurated, facilitating road-based cargo transport. Land acquisition for the proposed 10.7-km railway connectivity is progressing.
Following the grant of Integrated Check Post (ICP) status to the port, steps will be initiated in coordination with the Tourism Department to develop tourism-related facilities.
The government has also decided to acquire around 50 hectares of land for yard facilities and inspection infrastructure required for the upcoming phases.
The port has so far generated approximately Rs 97 crore in tax revenue for the State. About 1,000 people are currently employed directly, and once all phases are completed, the project is expected to generate over 6,000 direct jobs and thousands of indirect employment opportunities in logistics and allied sectors.
Highlighting Vizhinjam’s strategic advantages, the Minister pointed to its natural depth of 20 metres, rocky seabed and proximity, just 10 nautical miles, from the international shipping channel.
He said it was a matter of pride that vessels are now calling at Vizhinjam, bypassing major ports such as Dubai, Singapore and Colombo.
Vizhinjam Port next phase construction to begin in Jan 2026
