Prime Minister Narendra Modi officially inaugurated the Vizhinjam International Seaport in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, on Friday. Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone Ltd (APSEZ) developed the port through a public-private partnership with the government.
The Vizhinjam International Seaport in Kerala is 230 km from Kochi. The Vizhinjam International Seaport in Kerala is India's first mega transshipment terminal, costing Rs 8,900 crore and will look to reverse $220 million in annual revenue losses.
Today, Gautam Adani shared his thoughts on X, noting that history, ambition, and opportunity had come together as Kerala’s 30-year-old dream finally turned into reality. According to him, the port has now become India’s new gateway to the world.
He proudly stated that India had successfully built its first deep-sea automated port. This port, he added, is set to emerge as a major global transshipment hub. He credited the accomplishment to a clear vision, strong resilience, and a powerful partnership.
Moreover, he thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan for their support. He also expressed optimism, saying that India is now sailing toward a bolder and stronger future.
Today, at Vizhinjam, history, destiny and possibility came together as a 30-year-old dream of Kerala became India’s gateway to the world.
— Gautam Adani (@gautam_adani) May 2, 2025
We are proud to have built India’s first deep-sea automated port. A future global transshipment hub. This is a triumph of vision, resilience… pic.twitter.com/343mjcNcAB
Project Cost and Approval Status
The project cost about ₹8,900 crore. Authorities granted it commercial clearance in December 2023, following a successful trial run. Officials believe the port will boost India’s role in international shipping and trade.
Speaking at the launch, Prime Minister Modi said, “Vizhinjam port will bring economic stability to Kerala and the nation.” Several leaders attended the event, including Kerala Governor Rajendra Arlekar, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, Adani Group chairman Gautam Adani, and Thiruvananthapuram MP Shashi Tharoor.
Government Calls It a Key Infrastructure Project
The Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) described the seaport as a top priority for the nation. According to the PMO, the port will enhance India’s position in global trade, improve supply chains, and lower the country’s reliance on foreign ports for moving cargo.
Ideal Location and Deep-Water Access
The PMO highlighted the port’s strong advantages. “Its natural deep draft of nearly 20 meters and location near one of the world’s busiest sea trade routes further strengthens India’s position in global trade,” the PMO said. This depth allows the port to accommodate very large container ships with ease.
India’s First Transshipment Port
The PMO also said the port marks a major development in India’s shipping infrastructure. “It is the country’s first dedicated container transshipment port that represents the transformative advancements being made in India’s maritime sector as part of the unified vision of Viksit Bharat,” the statement read. This means India can now manage transshipment cargo at home, reducing the need to depend on ports in foreign countries.
PM Modi has posted through his account handle on X that Inauguration of the Vizhinjam Port in Kerala is significant for India’s maritime sector. People have been waiting for this port for many years. It will boost trade, commerce and will be particularly beneficial for Kerala’s economy.
Inauguration of the Vizhinjam Port in Kerala is significant for India’s maritime sector. People have been waiting for this port for many years. It will boost trade, commerce and will be particularly beneficial for Kerala’s economy.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) May 2, 2025
Here are glimpses from today’s programme in… pic.twitter.com/T1QQ00AvSA