Vizhinjam International Seaport set to begin roadway cargo operations with improved connectivity

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM : In a major boost to India’s maritime trade, Vizhinjam International Seaport is poised to commence roadway cargo operations in January 2025.

Officials have revealed that trial runs are currently underway, utilizing 40-foot equivalent container trailers carrying dummy cargo to evaluate the efficiency of the existing road network. The temporary route links the port to NH 66 through a service road and a vehicular underpass.

Construction activities are proceeding around the clock to meet the January 2025 deadline,” an official stated, noting that the approach road is expected to be completed by next month.

Vizhinjam Port has attracted significant attention from manufacturers and traders across the country, particularly after global shipping leader MSC added the port to its Jade and Dragon services, enabling direct trade with Europe and Southeast Asia.

“There is immense demand from manufacturers in Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, and Andhra Pradesh to use Vizhinjam for both export and import operations,” said a senior official from Vizhinjam International Seaport Limited (VISL).

The Adani Group and VISL are working closely to ensure customs check posts and other necessary facilities are ready in time for roadway cargo operations.

However, while this is a crucial milestone, business communities have raised concerns that road connectivity alone may not suffice.

To address these concerns, they have proposed a temporary container rail terminal at Nemom or Balaramapuram. In response, the state government has allocated Rs 206 crore to Southern Railway to establish a permanent container yard near Balaramapuram railway station.

The Centre has also granted in-principle approval for a cloverleaf intersection design at Thalakode to link Vizhinjam port with NH 66.

Upcoming meetings involving Railways, the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), and other stakeholders aim to expedite these projects. A final consultant for port-led industrialisation is expected to be selected by early January.

Currently, Vizhinjam port is handling only transshipment operations. Meanwhile, the state government, Adani Group, and NHAI have intensified discussions to ensure all infrastructure projects meet the January deadline.

Additionally, the state government has tasked VISL with drafting an invitation for Prime Minister Narendra Modi to formally inaugurate the port, which was commissioned earlier this month.