On Friday, Karan Adani, Managing Director of Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone Ltd (APSEZ), arrived at the inauguration of the Vizhinjam Port, India’s first trans-shipment port located near Kovalam Beach, Kerala.
This landmark project marks a significant advancement in the country’s maritime capabilities.
Upon arrival, key executives of the Adani Group welcomed Adani and gave him a tour of the newly completed facilities.
The construction team has officially completed the first phase of the port, which features an impressive 3,000-meter breakwater and an 800-meter container berth.
The day before the inauguration, the port received its first mothership, the ‘San Fernando,’ from Maersk, the world’s second-largest shipping line, carrying over 2,000 containers.
Gautam Adani, Chairman of the Adani Group, celebrated the occasion as a “historic day” for Vizhinjam Port.
He emphasized that this achievement not only marks India’s entry into the global trans-shipment market but also positions Vizhinjam as a pivotal hub in international trade.
Historic Day as Vizhinjam welcomes its 1st container vessel! This milestone marks India’s entry into global transshipment and ushers in a new era in India’s maritime logistics, positioning Vizhinjam as a key player in global trade routes. Jai Hind! pic.twitter.com/2LO97NuUYt
— Gautam Adani (@gautam_adani) July 11, 2024
The grand welcome for the ‘San Fernando’ included a traditional water salute, following which the vessel successfully berthed.
This milestone is likely to elevate India’s standing in the global port industry, potentially ranking the new port among the sixth or seventh largest worldwide.
The inauguration ceremony was poised to feature key dignitaries, including Union Minister for Ports, Shipping, and Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal, and Kerala Chief Minister, Pinarayi Vijayan.
CM Vijayan took to X and posted, “This event signifies a monumental moment in Kerala’s maritime history.”
He noted that the port is to generate over 5,000 direct job opportunities and enhance the region’s industry, commerce, transportation, and tourism sectors.
This Friday (July 12), the Vizhinjam International Seaport in Thiruvananthapuram will host a grand celebration to welcome its first mothership, San Fernando, a Maersk Line Vessel. This event signifies a monumental moment in Kerala’s maritime history and stands as a testament to…
— Pinarayi Vijayan (@pinarayivijayan) July 10, 2024
Vizhinjam Port: India’s First Semi-Automated Terminal
Notably, Vizhinjam Port will be the first semi-automated container terminal in India and aims to become a global bunkering hub, focusing on supplying clean fuels such as hydrogen and ammonia.
Meanwhile, Full-scale commercial operations are likely to commence in the coming months.
Looking ahead, the team will complete the second and third phases of the project by 2028, planning to make the port one of the most environmentally friendly in the world.
Also Read: Gautam Adani: Historic Day For Vizhinjam Port As India Enters Global Trans-Shipment Era
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