Vizhinjam Port Is Kerala’s Gateway to the Third Millennium: CM Pinarayi Vijayan

Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Vizhinjam International SeaPort in the presence of Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan and other distinguished guests, marking a turning point in India’s maritime trade.
Chief Minister Vijayan warmly welcomed the Prime Minister, stating that his presence added to the prestige and optimism surrounding the commissioning of the Vizhinjam Port. Addressing the gathering, CM Vijayan began by paying tribute to the victims of the recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam, underlining the importance of national unity in the face of divisive forces.
“This is not merely the opening of a port gate—it is the grand gateway for the nation into the development possibilities of the third millennium,” he said, describing the Vizhinjam Port as the dream project of the state.
Highlighting the port’s unique features, the Chief Minister noted that this is the first time in India that a major port has been developed under the initiative of a state government. Of the 8,686 crore project cost, Kerala is bearing 5,370.86 crore, with Adani Vizhinjam Port Private Limited contributing 2,497 crore and the central government offering 818 crore as Viability Gap Funding.The port aims to recover a significant national loss of 220 million tonnes, as 75 per cent of India's container transshipment cargo is currently handled by foreign ports. “This port puts an end to that diversion,” Vijayan said, adding that it positions Kerala as a major contributor to national economic resilience.
Originally scheduled for completion by 2045, commercial operations at the port began as early as 2024. Over 250 ships have already docked at Vizhinjam, and the first phase has now been officially commissioned—a full decade ahead of schedule. Completion of all phases is expected by 2028.
The Chief Minister recalled the project’s history, from its conception by the LDF government in 1996, through periods of uncertainty, delays, and public protests. Despite major setbacks—including floods, the COVID-19 pandemic, and administrative hurdles—CM Vijayan emphasised that Kerala remained steadfast in its commitment. Although tender procedures began in 2010, the central government denied approval at that stage. What followed were intense phases of protest, including human chains in support of the project.
Legal obstacles were eventually cleared, and community issues were addressed through a 120 crore investment in coastal resettlement and livelihood programs. The government also launched initiatives to promote women’s employment, including crane operation training and the establishment of skill development centres.More than 5,000 direct employment opportunities have been created through the port, with further expansions underway. CM Vijayan expressed Kerala’s gratitude to the Prime Minister and commended the Adani Group for executing the project efficiently.
He concluded by stating that there is no doubt this project will significantly strengthen the development of Kerala and, beyond that, the whole nation.