Vizhinjam Port to Be Fully Operational by December 2024, Confirms CEO Rajesh Jha
Vizhinjam Port in India is set to become fully operational by December 2024, announced Rajesh Jha, the CEO of Adani Vizhinjam Port Company during a press conference. The first phase of construction will be completed by May, with operations commencing on a trial basis. Following the trial period, the port will officially commission, marking a significant milestone in India’s infrastructure development.
Upon its completion, Vizhinjam Port will have the distinction of being India’s only port capable of accommodating even the world’s largest cargo ships. The port’s operation is expected to significantly contribute to the development of the state, especially the capital city.
In the first phase, Vizhinjam Port will have a capacity of 1.5 million TEUs (twenty-foot equivalent units). This capacity will increase to 2.5 million TEUs in the second phase and further to 3 million TEUs in the third phase.
The port will be equipped with 32 cranes in the first phase, comprising eight shore cranes and 24 yard cranes. This infrastructure will facilitate efficient cargo movement and handling.
Vizhinjam Port is primarily designed as a transshipment port. Around 90% of containers arriving on larger mother ships will be transshipped to smaller vessels for onward delivery to their destinations. The remaining 10% of cargo will be transported by road and rail. The port is not expected to pose a competitive threat to ports in Colombo, Dubai, and Singapore.
The operation of Vizhinjam Port is anticipated to create direct employment opportunities for around 650 people, with an additional 5,000 people benefiting indirectly. Plans for a railway connection to the port have been finalized and submitted for environmental clearance. Construction of a 1.75 km road to the port is also slated for completion next year, further enhancing connectivity to the port.
Vizhinjam Port’s full operation by December 2024 is expected to be a significant boost for trade, commerce, and infrastructure development in the region.
