Integrated Check Post Approved for Vizhinjam; More Ship Calls and Faster Development Ahead

Thiruvananthapuram: The Union Ministry of Home Affairs has approved an Integrated Check Post (ICP) at the Vizhinjam port for both international passenger movement and cargo handling. A gazette notification has been issued. With ICP status, the port can now take up activities other than the transshipment operations currently being carried out.

With ICP status, cargo arriving at Vizhinjam can now be transported directly across the country via road and rail networks. As more cargo ships begin calling at the port, the state expects significant economic gains. At present, large vessels unload cargo at Vizhinjam, after which it is moved to other destinations through smaller feeder ships. The ICP approval is expected to reduce both time and operational costs while boosting Kerala’s logistics sector and attracting major investment.

The ICP will also enable crew-change operations at the port, allowing crew members on international vessels to disembark and replacement crew to board. This is expected to increase activity in the surrounding area, including demand for accommodation and transport facilities. The proximity of the airport is an added advantage. Approval for disembarking tourists is also under consideration. Currently, crew members are allowed ashore only in emergencies and for health checks.

During the COVID period, Vizhinjam had special approval to carry out crew-change operations, which brought in more than 10 crore in additional revenue for the state. The Immigration Department later withdrew the permission, following which the state government repeatedly requested the Centre to restore it.

Construction of phases two to four of the port is scheduled to be completed by December 2028. Adani Ports is carrying out the work with an investment of 10,000 to 15,000 crore. The state government will not be required to invest directly in these phases, making it the largest PPP investment in Kerala. Officials said the project will significantly strengthen the state’s economy.

Rail connectivity for cargo movement is expected to become operational with the completion of the second phase. Work on the new road linking the port to the national highway is progressing and is expected to be completed within a month. The government said the development of supporting infrastructure will help Vizhinjam emerge as a major cargo hub in South India.