Worldwide Shipping companies focussing their attention to Kerala’s Vizhinjam Port
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM : The maritime world is abuzz with the recent developments at Vizhinjam Port, where some of the globe’s leading shipping companies are gearing up for operations. This southern Indian port is emerging as a significant player in the transshipment landscape, thanks to successful trial runs and strategic interest from major industry players.
The maiden trial run at Vizhinjam Port saw the arrival of the San Fernando, a vessel operated by Maersk, the world’s second-largest shipping company. The successful docking and subsequent departure of the San Fernando marked a pivotal moment for the port, demonstrating its capability to handle large motherships with efficiency. Following in Maersk’s wake, the Mediterranean Shipping Corporation (MSC), the world’s largest shipping company, has also shown keen interest in Vizhinjam. MSC is in the process of establishing an office in Thiruvananthapuram to manage its operations at the port. An MSC delegation visited Vizhinjam on Thursday, submitting the necessary documentation to secure permission to commence their activities.
The Adani Group, responsible for developing Vizhinjam port, is actively engaging with other major shipping companies to enhance the port’s operational capabilities further. These discussions aim to position Vizhinjam as a premier transshipment hub in the region, capable of alleviating the congestion currently faced by large vessels at Colombo port, where delays can stretch for days.
Port authorities at Vizhinjam have been conducting multiple trial runs to highlight the port’s transshipment potential. Three container ships have successfully docked and departed from Vizhinjam, with more expected to arrive for trial runs through September. Among these, an MSC vessel is anticipated, further cementing the port’s growing reputation.
The operationalization of Vizhinjam port is poised to revolutionize maritime transportation in the region. By reducing the time and costs associated with shipping, Vizhinjam aims to attract more global shipping traffic, offering a reliable alternative to the heavily congested ports in the Indian Ocean. The strategic location and modern facilities of Vizhinjam port promise to make it a critical node in the global supply chain, benefitting not only Kerala’s economy but also the broader maritime industry.
As the trial runs continue and more shipping giants consider Vizhinjam as a viable transshipment hub, the port is on the brink of transforming into a significant player on the global maritime stage. The collaborative efforts of the Adani Group and port authorities are set to usher in a new era of efficiency and growth for India’s maritime sector.