The Kerala Cabinet has approved a proposal to develop Kollam Port under a Public–Private Partnership (PPP) model, mirroring the structure adopted for Vizhinjam International Seaport, which was handed over to the Adani Group.
While the Kerala Maritime Board expects the move to unlock major development potential at Kollam, the decision has also triggered protests from groups opposing privatization.
According to officials, the government will retain ownership of the port while transferring operational responsibilities to a private concessionaire for a period of 40–45 years. The selected private partner will be responsible for infrastructure upgrades, capital investment, operations, and maintenance, and will hand back the port to the government upon completion of the concession period.
Although the Cabinet has granted approval, the formal government order is expected within two weeks. With the model code of conduct for the upcoming Assembly elections likely to come into force soon, preparation of the detailed project report (DPR) and tendering process is expected to begin only after the elections.
Unlike Vizhinjam at the time of its concession, Kollam Port already has key infrastructure in place, including a wharf, 7–8 metre draft, yard facilities, warehouses, equipment, immigration check point, and customs clearance facilities. However, the port has witnessed minimal cargo operations over the past decade, except for vessels transporting rock for the construction of Vizhinjam port. Attempts to launch cruise services and tourism-linked passenger vessels to Kanyakumari were unsuccessful.
The Maritime Board believes that private participation could help deepen the harbour, modernize facilities, and attract cruise liners as well as cargo vessels. If positioned as a feeder port to Vizhinjam International Seaport, Kollam could see increased vessel calls and cargo movement.
In addition, tourism development projects and fisheries-related initiatives are being considered as part of the broader development vision. Meanwhile, a proposal is under consideration to lease out a warehouse at the port to a private company for six months, following an approach made to the Maritime Board.