Vizhinjam International Seaport: Charting a Year of Maritime Milestones
THIRUVANANTHPURAM : Vizhinjam International Seaport has completed a historic first year of operations, emerging as one of India’s most dynamic and promising maritime gateways. From the initial berthing to welcoming record-breaking container vessels, Vizhinjam has not only exceeded expectations but also set new benchmarks in the Indian port sector.
From Vision to Momentum: One Year Strong
Operational since mid-2024, Vizhinjam has handled over 392 vessels and processed a remarkable 8.3 lakh TEUs, reflecting its growing prominence as a key hub for international maritime trade. As the port celebrates this milestone, it does so with pride — having created both global impact and local upliftment.
“From first berthing to full momentum, Vizhinjam has set the pace for India’s maritime future.”
Hosting the World’s Largest Container Ships
In June 2025, Vizhinjam made global headlines by receiving the MSC Irina, the world’s largest container vessel. At 399.99 meters in length and a staggering TEU capacity of 24,346, this marked a monumental achievement, making Vizhinjam the first South Asian port to berth such a vessel.
Shortly thereafter, MSC Claude Girardet, another mega ship, docked with 24,116 TEUs, the largest volume ever handled at an Indian port. With dimensions of 61.50 meters wide and 16.50 meters draft, this reinforced Vizhinjam’s unmatched capability to handle ultra-large container ships.
Breaking Records Beneath the Surface
Vizhinjam set another national milestone by handling MSC Carmelita, the deepest draft vessel ever to berth at an Indian port. With a loaded draft of 16.80 meters, it underlined the port’s world-class infrastructure and deep-water capacity.
Highest TEU Volume from a Single Vessel
In yet another achievement, MSC Paloma delivered 10,576 TEUs — the highest single-vessel container volume ever handled in India. This landmark operation showcased the port’s operational efficiency and scalability.
February Surge: Leading Among 15 Ports
In February 2025 alone, Vizhinjam led all 15 ports in south-eastern India in cargo volume, handling 78,833 TEUs from 40 vessels, proving its growing importance in the national logistics landscape.
Beyond Cargo: Creating Local Impact
Vizhinjam isn’t just about tonnage and vessels. The port has disbursed over ₹114.73 crore in livelihood support, driving socio-economic development in surrounding communities. It stands as a model for balancing industrial growth with social responsibility.
A Milestone with Momentum
From welcoming maritime giants to setting operational records, Vizhinjam International Seaport’s first year has been more than a beginning — it’s a bold declaration of India’s port potential. With world-class infrastructure, deep-water capacity, and record-breaking performance, Vizhinjam is not just keeping pace — it’s leading the wave.
“The journey has just begun. Vizhinjam is not only redefining India’s maritime map — it’s shaping its future.”