The Kerala government is preparing to inaugurate the second phase of the Vizhinjam International Seaport development by mid-January, marking a major step forward in the expansion of the state’s flagship maritime infrastructure project.
After reviewing the terminal’s performance, Kerala Ports Minister V.N. Vasavan said that the opening of the second, third and fourth phases of construction will involve an investment of ₹9,700 crore by Adani Vizhinjam Port Pvt. Ltd. (AVPPL). As part of Phase II, the existing 800-metre berth will be extended by 1,200 metres to a total length of 2,000 metres. The 2.96-kilometre breakwater will also be lengthened by an additional 920 metres.
Since the launch of commercial operations on December 3, 2024, the port has handled 13.25 lakh TEUs, with 636 vessels calling at the terminal. During this period, Vizhinjam contributed approximately ₹97 crore to the state exchequer through taxes. The minister noted that the port has achieved several milestones, including becoming the first port in India to handle more than 40 ultra-large container vessels of 399 metres in length. In addition, over 155 vessels longer than 300 metres and more than 45 ships with drafts exceeding 16 metres have called at the port.
To strengthen connectivity, the approach road linking the port to NH-66 will also be inaugurated, facilitating smoother movement of gateway cargo. Work is progressing on land acquisition for connecting the port to the existing rail network at Balaramapuram railway station through an underground tunnel.
Around 50 hectares of land will be acquired for port-related infrastructure, including container yards, security installations, customs facilities and police aid posts.
The state government is also planning to develop cruise tourism at Vizhinjam port. Discussions are currently under way to create the necessary infrastructure to support cruise operations, positioning Vizhinjam as a new hub for maritime tourism alongside its growing role in global container trade.