The Vizhinjam International Seaport Limited has initiated a major expansion drive by signing three strategic Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) aimed at strengthening the port’s position as a global maritime gateway.
VISL CEO Sreekumar K Nair said the first phase of auxiliary infrastructure projects will involve an investment of around ₹800 crore, to be executed through public-private partnership (PPP) models.
As part of the expansion, VISL has signed an MoU with Indian Oil Corporation Limited to establish a dedicated oil bunkering facility for refuelling cargo vessels. The project, which will require approximately 20 acres of land, is expected to position Vizhinjam as a competitive bunkering hub along a key global shipping route.
Strategically located just 18 km from a major international shipping lane that carries nearly one-third of global maritime trade, Vizhinjam is well-placed to compete with established bunkering centres such as Fujairah and the Port of Singapore. Officials noted that Singapore alone supplies nearly 50 million metric tonnes of marine fuel annually.
The upcoming bunkering facility is expected to generate substantial GST revenue while creating significant employment opportunities.
In another key development, VISL has partnered with Container Corporation of India to develop a Multi-Modal Logistic Park over 100 acres. The facility will focus on cargo sorting, container management, and seamless transfer through road and rail networks, enhancing the efficiency of cargo movement linked to the port.
Additionally, VISL has signed an MoU with the Central Warehousing Corporation to set up a large-scale warehouse complex across approximately 200 acres. The proposed site, located between Nemom and Parassala, will benefit from strong railway connectivity and is expected to play a crucial role in improving cargo storage and distribution.
Officials highlighted that the corridor—particularly the Balaramapuram–Parassala–Nagercoil rail route—will be vital for handling future container traffic.
Gateway to Global Ports
Highlighting the port’s global connectivity, Nair said Vizhinjam offers direct access to over 100 major container ports worldwide. He added that China, which accounts for nearly 40% of global manufacturing, has emerged as a key user, with large vessels already docking at the port for transshipment operations.
VISL has also invited both domestic and international manufacturers to leverage the port’s growing ecosystem, assuring full infrastructure support for industrial development in the region.
With these initiatives, Vizhinjam is set to evolve into a major transshipment and logistics hub, boosting Kerala’s presence in global maritime trade while driving investment, employment, and economic growth.
