A New Chapter for Vizhinjam: Commercial Hub Under PPP

Kerala Maritime Board (KMB) is set to redevelop the minor port at Vizhinjam into a commercial hub under a public-private partnership (PPP) model, with final approval from the state government expected by May.

Located adjacent to the Adani-operated Vizhinjam International Seaport and a busy fishing harbour, the upgraded minor port will cater to small and mid-sized vessels. As part of the plan, the existing 160-metre wharf will be refurbished, with proposals already submitted to the ports department and currently awaiting the Chief Minister’s nod.

“We aim to transform this minor port into a medium-scale commercial facility by upgrading both the seaward and leeward wharves,” said KMB Chairman NS Pillai. “Tender preparations are already underway, pending government clearance.”

The port is expected to attract mid-sized cruise ships, short-haul passenger ferries, and small container vessels, complementing operations at the adjoining international port. A private partner will have the scope to extend the berth and coordinate with shipping operators to establish new services.

Additionally, discussions are ongoing with shipping lines to integrate ferry services with Adani’s seaport, potentially using the minor port as a support base for container and passenger traffic.

Meanwhile, the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) berth at Vizhinjam, constructed by the state’s harbour engineering department with ICG funding of ₹25 crore, was recently completed. A fast patrol vessel and three IB/IC-class ships currently operate from a temporary berth managed by KMB.

News by Rahul Yelligetti.