In a push to accelerate port-led industrialization, the Kerala government has sanctioned ₹1.83 crore to appoint a consultant for preparing a detailed project report (DPR) on industrial development around the Vizhinjam International Seaport.
The consultant, expected to be finalized by the end of August, will prepare a strategic roadmap covering marine facilities, container yards, logistics clusters, and allied land-based infrastructure. A selection committee is set to meet soon, with technical and financial evaluations already completed. The study is to be completed within a year, though earlier submission will be accepted.
“We are ensuring the foundations for a strong port ecosystem are laid without further delay,” a senior official said, noting that the lack of container yards, freight zones, and truck terminals has delayed gateway cargo operations.
To tackle land scarcity and rising property costs, the Kerala Maritime Board has proposed transferring five acres near Harbour Road’s historic Inspection Bungalow to host container yards, oil storage units, and warehouses under a PPP model, pending cabinet nod. Vizhinjam International Seaport Ltd (VISL) has also been tasked with earmarking at least 200 acres for industrial clusters, including food processing and manufacturing.
Connectivity works are progressing, with the temporary access road to NH-66 at Thalakode expected to be ready within a month. However, the permanent ₹360-crore cloverleaf interchange at Thalakode—requiring 30 acres of land—remains uncertain, with funding talks between the state and NHAI stalled.
On the rail front, tenders are expected soon for a proposed 9km tunnel linking the port with Southern Railway’s mainline at Balaramapuram.