Vizhinjam Port set to start gateway cargo operations in May after key safety clearance

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM : Gateway cargo operations at Vizhinjam International Seaport are expected to begin in the second week of May, marking an important step in Kerala’s maritime infrastructure expansion.

The development follows the port securing mandatory approval from the Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB) after a recent site inspection, clearing the facility for handling containerised export-import cargo.

Only the final customs clearance is now pending, with officials expecting the approval within days.

Once granted, the port will be able to commence Exim cargo movement, allowing exporters and importers in Kerala and neighbouring states to use Vizhinjam directly rather than routing shipments through other ports.

Authorities said both Adani Vizhinjam Port Pvt Ltd (AVPPL), the operator, and Vizhinjam International Seaport Ltd (VISL) have completed the necessary groundwork ahead of launch.

Demand from the regional trading community has reportedly been strong, particularly for faster and more cost-effective cargo movement.

During the initial phase, around 30 per cent of traffic is expected to consist of gateway cargo, while the remaining 70 per cent will focus on transshipment activity. At present, the port’s 800-metre berth can accommodate two motherships simultaneously.

Inside the port, high-capacity scanning systems for container trucks have already been installed to meet customs and security requirements. Trial runs for cargo movement are expected shortly, with limited initial volumes likely to consist mainly of local goods.