Vizhinjam port’s capability to handle the world’s largest vessels strengthens India’s presence in global logistics and maritime trade.
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM
The Vizhinjam International Seaport, developed and operated by Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone Ltd. (APSEZ) in partnership with the Kerala government, marked one year of commercial operations on Wednesday, setting new benchmarks.
In just 10 months, Vizhinjam became the fastest Indian port to handle 1 million TEUs (twenty equivalent units) cargo. The port has so far handled 615 vessels and 1.32 million TEUs cargo. Among the vessels, 41 ultra-large container vessels (ULCVs) 399+ metres long, the highest in any Indian port, and 154 ships above 300 metres long were also handled, demonstrating the port’s capability to handle the world’s large carriers.
MSC Verona with a 17.1 m arrival draft, the deepest-draft vessel ever handled in south Asia, and MSC Irina, the world’s largest container ship had called at the port during the year. Vizhinjam became the first Indian port to deploy women automated crane operators, advancing gender inclusion in maritime operations. The work on the second phase of the development of the port has begun, although the work will be formally inaugurated after the local body election.
Second phase of work
The work on berth and breakwater extension is under way. The second phase will see an investment of ₹9,700 crore by the port concessionaire Adani Vizhinjam Port Private Ltd. (AVPPL). As per the master plan for the development of the multipurpose seaport, the breakwater, which currently has a length of around 3,000 m, will be extended to 3,900 m by 2028. The container terminal berth in the port will be extended by 1.2 km from the existing 800 m. Once completed, the port’s annual handling capacity will be increased to over 4 million TEUs, making Vizhinjam the largest container-handling port in southern India.
Located close to major East-West shipping lanes, Vizhinjam is emerging as India’s premier deep-water transshipment hub. Its capability to handle the world’s largest vessels strengthens India’s presence in global logistics and maritime trade. Vizhinjam’s exceptional first year not only elevates the port’s global standing but also reinforces India’s growing influence in international shipping, said the port authorities here on Wednesday.
Published – December 03, 2025 07:46 pm IST
