Modi inaugurates Rs88b Vizhinjam port in Kerala

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the first phase of the Vizhinjam International Deepwater Multipurpose Seaport, valued at Rs88 billion, on Friday.

- Ashraf Padanna

The Prime Minister said that 75 per cent of India's transhipment operations were conducted at foreign ports, resulting in significant revenue loss for the country.

He asserted that this situation is set to change and that funds that once flowed outside the country will generate new economic opportunities for the people of Kerala.

One of the port's most remarkable features is its natural deep draft of nearly 20 metres, the deepest among all ports in India.

This exceptional depth enables it to accommodate all vessels, including ultra large container ships and bulk carriers, which require significant draft to operate efficiently.

Vizhinjam is the closest Indian port to the busiest international shipping routes along the trade corridor connecting Asia, Europe, and Africa.

The geographical advantage allows for reduced transit times and improved logistics efficiency, facilitating relatively quicker turnaround times for shipping operations.

“Vizhinjam has now emerged as a symbol of modern development,” Modi said, congratulating the people of Kerala and the entire nation on the achievement.