In Thiruvananthapuram, over 20 crew members are stranded aboard the MSC Akiteta II, anchored at Vizhinjam port. Following a Kerala High Court order for the ship’s arrest, the crew faces uncertainty, unable to change shifts or return home. Adani Ports is supplying essential provisions as tensions rise.
Kerala’s Vizhinjam International Seaport has quickly emerged as a vital maritime center since its commercial launch in December. Developed by Adani Ports, it recently welcomed its 500th vessel, showcasing its capability for ultra-large container ships. Within 10 months, Vizhinjam handled 1.1 million TEUs, marking significant growth in India’s shipping sector.
Vizhinjam Port authorities are set to implement a dynamic mooring system next month, enhancing operational efficiency. With machinery delivered and staff training planned, this innovative system will secure vessels amidst tidal changes, significantly reducing downtime and vessel turnaround time. This advancement aims to boost container throughput and strengthen India’s shipping competitiveness.
Vizhinjam International Port has marked a milestone with the arrival of the MSC Virginia, a container ship measuring 16.95 meters in draft, the deepest at the harbor. This achievement, celebrated during the Onam Festival, demonstrates the port’s capability to handle large vessels, solidifying its status as a premier deep-water hub in India.
Vizhinjam port is projected to handle 1.3 to 1.4 million containers by December 2026, as announced by Minister V N Vasavan. Since its operations began on December 3, 2024, it has already processed over 1 million containers, significantly exceeding initial expectations and establishing itself as a key player in maritime trade.
Kottayam Port and Container Terminal aims to develop inland water connectivity with Vizhinjam Port to boost cargo transshipment. With government support and potential daily movement of 30 TEUs, the port seeks to enhance local exporters’ customs processes, reduce congestion, and facilitate smoother logistics by improving waterway routes.
Kerala Ports Minister V N Vasavan celebrated a milestone as nearly 400 container ships have docked at the Vizhinjam transshipment hub within its first year. The port, inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on May 2, showcases India’s advancements in automation and AI, benefiting over 100,000 people through various social initiatives.
The Vizhinjam international seaport has achieved a remarkable milestone, handling over 800,000 TEUs from approximately 385 ships since its launch. It ranks third nationally, leading private ports in the eastern and southern regions. With plans for expansion, Vizhinjam is set to significantly enhance maritime operations in southern India.
On June 9, 2025, Karan Adani heralded the MSC Irina’s arrival at Vizhinjam Port, marking a pivotal moment for India’s maritime industry. As the world’s largest container ship, its docking underscores India’s growing role in global trade and highlights Vizhinjam’s strategic importance in international shipping routes.
Vizhinjam Port has quickly become the leading container handling hub in South and East India, narrowing the gap with major Western ports. Its strategic location and advanced automated systems have enabled it to exceed its initial capacity. As it continues to develop, Vizhinjam is set to enhance its regional container trade dominance.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Vizhinjam port, a ₹8,900 crore project, emphasizing its role in enhancing India’s maritime security. He highlighted the port as a catalyst for regional development, boosting trade and economic growth, while creating employment opportunities and improving logistics efficiency for larger cargo ships in global trade.
Kerala’s Minister VN Vasavan shared that the Gateway Container operation at Vizhinjam port would begin in four months. Discussions are progressing for installing container scanners. Recent data showed 215 ships docking with 4,22,846 TEU handled. The upcoming phases for the Transportunship Harbor at Tiefsee port were approved.
The Vizhinjam International Port has emerged as the top performer in cargo handling among 15 harbors in southern and eastern India. Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan praised the port’s rapid progress and highlighted its significance in the global maritime industry. With only eight months of operation, Vizhinjam has already made a significant impact.
Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC) will increase the number of ships docking at Vizhinjam International Port in 2025. The Dragon and Jade services will connect Asia, the Mediterranean, Europe, and Asia. Adani Ports plans to utilize the port for export containers, providing faster shipping to Europe. This collaboration will enhance trade opportunities and efficiency.
The arrival of the MV San Fernando at Vizhinjam port in Kerala marks a significant milestone for India’s maritime ambitions. With state-of-the-art technology and plans to handle transshipment traffic, the port aims to elevate India’s position in global trade. This project, a partnership between the Kerala government and Adani Group, is expected to create thousands of new jobs and revolutionize India’s maritime history.
