The Vizhinjam International Port, a milestone in the industrial and commercial development of Kerala, is all set to receive the mothership. This vessel, carrying over 1,000 containers, is anchored at the port as part of a trial run ahead of the commencement of commercial operations. Vizhinjam Port, which holds a crucial position in India's sea-based cargo movement, is recognized for its shipping efficiency with state-of-the-art automated cranes and advanced automation systems. The port features deep draft berths and advanced container handling equipment. Its strategic location in the centre of the Indian coastline, proximity to international shipping routes, ideal fuel bunkering location, natural depth, and minimal littoral drift make Vizhinjam a critical maritime gateway poised to contribute significantly to regional development and India's integration into global trade networks.

Milestones: Vizhinjam International Port, developed under a public-private partnership model, began construction in 2015. The Adani Group established a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) named Adani Vizhinjam Port Private Limited (AVPPL) for the project. On August 17, 2015, the Government of Kerala entered into a concession agreement with AVPPL for the development and operation of the Vizhinjam International Deepwater Multipurpose Port and Construction work started on December 5.

Major Activities in Phase I - After 2016 
•    Basic Infrastructure Development: Focus on dredging, reclamation, and breakwater construction to create a safe port environment.
•    Terminal Facilities: Development of initial terminal facilities, including berths for ships and storage areas.
•    Deep Draft Berths: Construction of berths capable of accommodating large vessels.
•    Connectivity: Improvements in road and rail connectivity to facilitate efficient cargo movement.
•    Environmental Protection: Integration of environmental mitigation measures, such as environmental impact assessments (EIA), waste management, and community engagement activities to ensure sustainable development.
•    Technological Integration: Incorporation of advanced technologies, including automated systems and modern cargo handling equipment, for efficient port operations.
Completion of works including 8 Semi-Automated RMQC (Rail Mounted Quay Cranes), 23 Fully Automated CRMG (Container Rubber Tyred Gantry Cranes), marine crafts, port operation building, security building, workshop, automated gate complex, container scanner, and OCR portal.

First vessel with cranes at Vizhinjam: The maiden ship "Zhen Hua 15," carrying three state-of-the-art cranes for construction purposes, reached Vizhinjam Port on October 15. This marked a significant milestone in the development of essential infrastructure, such as berths and docking facilities, critical for accommodating international vessels and facilitating trade. The ship brought the largest ship-to-shore cranes used in the country's ports.

Customs Approval for Port: Vizhinjam International Port, the country's first deep-sea container transshipment port, has received customs approval. With the approval of Section 7A of the Central Board of Indirect Taxes, Vizhinjam has become an authorized port for exports and imports. The approval was granted after completing twelve guidelines, ensuring the completion of facilities such as office buildings, computer systems, and server rooms. Vizhinjam also received permission from the Union Shipping Ministry to operate as India's first transshipment port, where goods are transferred from one ship to another.

International Shipping and Port Security Code (ISPS) Approval: Vizhinjam Port has received the International Shipping and Port Security Code (ISPS) approval from the International Maritime Organization under the United Nations. This approval is necessary for operating international vessels, including high-speed cargo, bulk carriers, and other cargo ships.

Location Code: Vizhinjam Port has been assigned the location code IN NYY 1. "IN" refers to India, "NYY" is an abbreviation of Neyyattinkara, and "1" indicates the seaport. The existing port's code is IN VZJ 1.

Vizhinjam Ready to Welcome Mothership: The first container mothership is scheduled to be anchored at Vizhinjam International Port on July 12. Vizhinjam is now a reality as an international port capable of accommodating motherships and facilitating cargo transport. It is also the country's first transhipment seaport, with all necessary basic amenities completed. A cargo ship from Mundra Port will be the first to arrive, and if successful, the port will commence commissioning proceedings. With the increase in exports and imports through Vizhinjam International Port, Kerala is expected to experience significant industrial growth. The port is designed to handle 1 million containers in the first phase, with plans to increase this capacity to 5 million containers in subsequent phases. The port operations are expected to generate significant employment opportunities and increase revenue. An investment of ₹10,000 crore is anticipated along the Kerala coast following the completion of the port construction. Vizhinjam Port is set to transform the economic landscape of Kerala and become a driving force in India's maritime sector.

Last updated on : 2024-07-11 12:18:57