Ports and cooperation minister VN Vasavan, who convened a meeting to form a reception committee for the Vizhinjam International Port inauguration, stated that Kerala is set to witness a historic moment on May 2. He indicated that the commissioning of the port by
will place the state at the forefront globally.
The meeting was convened to discuss the supplementary activities to make the inauguration ceremony a historic event, the minister added. The construction of the Vizhinjam port was officially completed and handed over in December. During the three-month trial run, more ships arrived at Vizhinjam than expected. The port has already made impressive progress, with over 265 ships arriving and handling approximately 500,000 containers.
Railway connectivity and road connectivity are the remaining tasks to be completed. Of the proposed 10.7km of rail line, 9.2km will be underground. The detailed project report prepared by Konkan Railway has received approval from the Ministry of Railways.
The social impact study and environmental impact study were approved. Land acquisition procedures will commence soon. A committee chaired by the chief secretary reached an agreement with the National Highway Authority of India to resolve road connectivity issues and a temporary 1.6km road will be completed soon. The second phase of construction can begin alongside the commissioning of the first phase of the international port, the minister said.
Minister of General Education and Labour V Sivankutty presided over the meeting. He emphasised the need to prepare a grand welcome for the prime minister and stated that ensuring public participation in the inauguration ceremony was everyone’s responsibility. He urged local institutions to promote the event and ensure public involvement.
