A New Era for Kerala: Inaugurating the Vizhinjam International Port

Kerala is poised to mark a historic milestone on May 2 with the inauguration of the Vizhinjam International Port. Ports and Cooperation Minister VN Vasavan described the event as a "historic moment" that will elevate the state to a global maritime hub. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will officiate the ceremony.

To ensure a grand celebration, Minister Vasavan convened a meeting to form a reception committee and plan additional activities that highlight the port’s significance and encourage public participation.

The port, officially completed and handed over in December, has already demonstrated impressive capacity during its three-month trial, handling over 500,000 containers and welcoming more than 265 ships.

Despite its operational readiness, key connectivity projects remain in progress. A 10.7 km railway line—9.2 km of which will run underground—has received approval from the Ministry of Railways, with land acquisition to follow environmental and social impact clearances. For road access, a committee led by the Chief Secretary has collaborated with the National Highway Authority of India to address hurdles, and a 1.6 km temporary road is nearing completion.

Minister Vasavan noted that the inauguration of the first phase will set the stage for the port’s second phase of development.

Presiding over the committee meeting, Minister of General Education and Labour V Sivankutty called on local institutions to actively support and promote the event, stressing the importance of public engagement in this transformative moment for Kerala.

News by Rahul Yelligetti.