Kerala’s Vizhinjam International Seaport has quickly established itself as a key maritime hub since launching commercial operations in December. Developed by Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone (APSEZ), the port has achieved remarkable milestones, including welcoming its 500th vessel, the MSC Verona, the deepest-draft container ship to arrive at an Indian harbor. With an impressive draft of 17.1 meters, this showcases Vizhinjam’s capability to accommodate next-generation ultra-large container vessels (ULCVs).
Within its first 10 months, Vizhinjam handled 1.1 million TEUs, exceeding initial annual capacity forecasts and making it one of the fastest-growing container terminals in India. Its optimal depth of 18–20 meters and low littoral drift enhance its suitability for large vessels, a significant advantage over other Indian ports. This potential is expected to reshape India’s transshipment landscape by reducing reliance on foreign ports like Colombo and Singapore.
As it continues to grow, Vizhinjam is poised to become India’s premier deep-water transshipment hub. With plans to improve connectivity and supporting infrastructure, the port aims to strengthen India’s position in global trade and shipping routes, fulfilling a vital role in the nation’s maritime ambitions.
