India’s Vizhinjam International Seaport Starts Roadway Cargo Traffic

In January, roadway cargo traffic from the Vizhinjam International Seaport is set to commence, a significant milestone for India’s maritime trade industry. To assess the feasibility of utilizing the current road network for transportation, trial runs have already begun with 40-foot equivalent container trucks carrying dummy freight. These tests are taking place on a temporary route that connects the port site to NH 66 via a service road and vehicle underpass. Construction of the approach road, expected to be completed next month, is proceeding around the clock to meet the deadline for operational roadway traffic.

Interest in the Vizhinjam port is high among manufacturers and traders across India, especially after the addition of the port to MSC’s Jade and Dragon services, providing direct international trade access to Europe and Southeast Asia. While the initiation of road freight traffic is a crucial initial step, concerns remain within the business community about the potential limitations of road connectivity alone. Calls have been made for the establishment of a temporary container rail station at Nemom or Balaramapuram to streamline logistics, prompting allocated funds from the state government to Southern Railway for the construction of a permanent container yard next to Balaramapuram railway station.

As Vizhinjam port currently focuses on transshipment operations, plans are in motion to expand its capabilities. The state government has tasked VISL with drafting an invitation for Prime Minister Narendra Modi to attend the port’s inauguration, which occurred earlier this month. In anticipation of the commencement of roadway cargo traffic in January, discussions are underway regarding the construction of a cloverleaf intersection at Thalakode to enhance connectivity between NH 66 and the port. Additionally, the selection of a final bidder for the port-led industrialization consultant position is expected by early January. Future plans for a container rail terminal will be key topics of discussion with the NHAI and the Railways.

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