Vizhinjam port sets new national benchmarks within 10 months of launch

By Admin

24 Sep, 2025

Kerala’s Vizhinjam International Seaport has made headlines yet again, achieving remarkable milestones in record time. In just 10 months since beginning commercial operations in December last year, the port has emerged as one of India’s most dynamic maritime gateways, setting multiple national benchmarks that reaffirm its strategic importance for the country’s trade and shipping future.

500th Vessel Milestone

In a symbolic achievement, Vizhinjam welcomed its 500th vessel this week the MSC Verona, the deepest-draft container ship ever to call at an Indian harbour. With a draft of 17.1 metres, MSC Verona showcases the port’s capability to handle the new generation of ultra-large container vessels (ULCVs) that dominate global trade.

According to Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone (APSEZ), which developed and operates the port, 28 ULCVs have already docked here the highest number ever handled by a single Indian port. This milestone reflects the port’s growing appeal to global carriers seeking faster turnaround and deep-water access.

Cargo Performance Surpasses Forecasts

Vizhinjam has also exceeded expectations on the cargo front. In its first 10 months, the port handled 1.1 million TEUs (twenty-foot equivalent units), surpassing its initial annual capacity forecast. This performance places Vizhinjam among the fastest-growing container terminals in India and highlights its potential to redefine the country’s transshipment landscape.

One of Vizhinjam’s biggest natural advantages is its 18–20 metres of natural depth, combined with minimal littoral drift, which enables it to berth the world’s largest vessels with minimal dredging requirements an edge unmatched by most Indian ports.

Emerging as a Transshipment Hub

APSEZ highlighted that Vizhinjam’s capabilities are rapidly transforming it into India’s premier deep-water transshipment hub. The port strengthens India’s presence on major global trade routes, offering seamless connectivity to international shipping networks.

Industry experts believe Vizhinjam could reduce India’s dependence on foreign hubs like Colombo and Singapore for transshipment. By attracting mainline vessels directly, it can significantly shorten transit times, lower logistics costs, and boost export competitiveness.

Strategic Importance

Located close to vital east–west international shipping lanes, Vizhinjam enjoys natural advantages few ports in the region can match. Its ability to berth ULCVs makes it a game-changer for India’s maritime sector, complementing existing container hubs along both coasts.

State Ports Minister V.N. Vasavan underscored its importance, saying: “Vizhinjam is already setting benchmarks in operational efficiency and vessel handling, and it is poised to play a central role in India’s maritime future.”

Outlook for the Future

As operations scale up, APSEZ is focusing on enhancing connectivity and building complementary logistics infrastructure, including free trade zones and multimodal links. With continued growth, Vizhinjam is expected to evolve into a major gateway for global trade, reinforcing India’s standing in international shipping.

In less than a year, Vizhinjam has not only exceeded expectations but has also positioned itself as a benchmark for India’s port infrastructure a symbol of efficiency, scale, and strategic foresight.