Thiruvananthapuram, February 5: A press delegation from Srinagar, as part of an ongoing media tour organised by the Press Information Bureau (PIB), Srinagar, on Thursday visited the Vizhinjam International Transshipment Deepwater Multipurpose Seaport in Kerala, one of India’s most significant maritime infrastructure projects.
Developed by Adani Ports and inaugurated in May 2025 by the Prime Minister, the Vizhinjam International Seaport is India’s first major deep-water container transshipment hub, envisioned as a gateway to global maritime trade. The delegation was briefed on the port’s strategic importance in reducing India’s dependence on foreign ports for container transshipment, improving logistical efficiency and strengthening the country’s role in global supply chains.
Addressing the journalists, Pradeep Jayaraman, Chief Executive Officer of Adani Vizhinjam Port, outlined the port’s operational capabilities and infrastructure. He highlighted the deployment of modern quay cranes, advanced yard equipment and integrated digital systems that enable efficient cargo handling. The port’s natural deep draft and proximity to international shipping lanes were cited as key geographical advantages facilitating seamless transshipment between major global routes.
The delegation was informed about the port’s multimodal connectivity, which links maritime operations with hinterland transport networks to ensure smooth movement of goods across domestic and international markets. Jayaraman said the port has been designed to promote economic growth, generate employment and contribute to regional development. He also highlighted several notable initiatives at the port, including the presence of India’s first female crane operator and the use of an indigenously developed Vehicle Traffic Management System created by an IIT Madras-incubated startup.
The visit was coordinated by Mahesh Guptan, Head of Communications, Adani Vizhinjam Port, who facilitated interactions and guided the delegation through key operational areas. Journalists toured various departments, the container yard and the central control systems, gaining first-hand exposure to the port’s high level of automation and digital integration.
Officials informed the delegation that the port has a planned handling capacity of 1.5 million containers annually and has already handled around 740 vessels, including some of the world’s largest container ships. The port also features the country’s largest breakwater wall, a major engineering structure critical to safe and efficient operations.
With increasing automation, the port is focusing on skill development and training in advanced technologies to ensure sustainable employment and long-term career opportunities. A dedicated training institute has been established at the port, with special emphasis on training local youth and women, alongside initiatives supporting organic farming practices.
At the outset, Majid Pandit, Media and Communication Officer, PIB Srinagar, who is also the conducting officer for the Kerala tour, introduced the members of the press delegation. The Vizhinjam visit forms part of a five-day media outreach programme by PIB Srinagar aimed at familiarising journalists with key national infrastructure projects, research institutions and major government initiatives.
