Vizhinjam port hits 1 mn TEUs in Just 10 months, sets multiple national records

By Admin

04 Dec, 2025

Vizhinjam International Seaport has rewritten India’s maritime history by becoming the fastest port in the country to cross the 1-million-TEU mark achieving this milestone within just 10 months of operations. The deep-water port, jointly developed by Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone Ltd. (APSEZ) and the Government of Kerala, handled a remarkable 1.32 million TEUs in its debut year, signalling a new era for India’s port infrastructure.

A High-Performance Start

Since opening on 3 December 2024, Vizhinjam has showcased exceptional operational performance. In just its first year, the port handled 615 vessel calls, quickly emerging as a preferred destination for the world’s largest container ships. Among these were 41 ultra-large container vessels (ULCVs) over 399 metres in length the highest number managed by any port in India. Additionally, 154 vessels above 300 metres and 45 ships with drafts exceeding 16 metres were efficiently serviced, underscoring Vizhinjam’s unmatched natural depth advantage.

Record-Breaking Achievements

Several standout accomplishments have positioned Vizhinjam at the forefront of global maritime operations. The port handled MSC Verona with a 17.1-metre arrival draft, making it the deepest-draft vessel ever managed in South Asia. It also received MSC Irina, the world’s largest container ship, marking another milestone in its rapid rise.

Vizhinjam posted its highest single-vessel throughput of 10,576 TEUs on MSC Paloma and achieved a peak Gross Crane Rate of 28.52 in October demonstrating efficiency on par with global transshipment hubs.

Driving Technological Advancement

As India’s first semi-automated container terminal, Vizhinjam is setting new benchmarks in port automation. The deployment of advanced technologies, including a Made-in-India Vehicle Traffic Management System, ensures smooth and efficient landside cargo movement. The port also became the first in the country to deploy women operators for automated cranes a major step toward gender inclusion in India’s maritime sector.

Strategic Location and Global Relevance

Situated close to major East–West shipping routes, Vizhinjam is gaining prominence as India’s leading deep-water transshipment hub. Its ability to handle the world’s largest container vessels is solidifying India’s position in global maritime trade and attracting more international carriers to its shores.

A Transformative Impact on India’s Logistics Landscape

Vizhinjam’s record-breaking first year signals more than just operational success. It represents a major boost to India’s logistics competitiveness, strengthens supply chain efficiencies, and opens new doors for economic development. With its strategic capabilities and world-class infrastructure, Vizhinjam is poised to become a powerful force in international shipping.

As it continues to scale new heights, Vizhinjam Port stands as a symbol of India’s rising maritime ambitions driving progress, enhancing global trade connectivity, and setting new standards for the future of port operations.