Thiruvananthapuram (Kerala): As part of the ongoing media tour organised by the Press Information Bureau (PIB), Srinagar, a press delegation from Srinagar today visited the Vizhinjam International Transshipment Deepwater Multipurpose Seaport in Kerala, a strategic maritime infrastructure project developed by Adani Ports. Inaugurated in May 2025 by the Prime Minister of India, Vizhinjam International Seaport (VIS) is India’s first major, deep-water container transshipment hub designed to serve as a gateway to global maritime trade.
Addressing the delegation, Pradeep Jayaraman, CEO, Adani Vizhinjam Port highlighted the role of Vizhinjam as a transshipment hub that reduces dependence on foreign ports for container handling, enhances logistical efficiencies, and strengthens India’s position in global supply chains.
Jayaraman informed about the state-of-the-art infrastructure at Vizhinjam Port, including modern quay cranes, advanced yard equipment, and integrated digital systems for efficient cargo handling and port operations. Vizhinjam’s geographic advantages, such as its natural depth and proximity to international shipping lanes, were underscored as key factors enabling seamless transshipment of containers between major global destinations, he added.
The port’s multimodal connectivity links maritime operations with hinterland transportation networks to facilitate the efficient movement of goods within and beyond India’s borders. Jayaraman elaborated on how the port’s design and operational planning aim to foster economic activity, create employment opportunities and support regional development. Vizhinjam Port has several notable firsts, including India’s first female crane operator, reflecting the port’s emphasis on inclusivity and skill development. The port’s Vehicle Traffic Management System has been developed by a startup incubated at IIT Madras, showcasing the integration of indigenous innovation with large-scale infrastructure.
The delegation was facilitated by Mahesh Guptan, Head of Communications, Adani Vizhinjam Port, who coordinated the interaction and guided the journalists through various operational areas of the port. The delegation visited multiple departments, the container yard and also witnessed port operations being monitored and controlled through advanced remote systems, providing first-hand exposure to the port’s high level of automation and digital integration.
It was informed that the port has a planned handling capacity of 1.5 million containers per year and has so far handled around 740 vessels, including some of the largest container vessels in the world. The port also houses the largest breakwater wall in the country, a key engineering feature supporting safe and efficient operations.
With increasing automation, emphasis is being laid on upskilling and training personnel in advanced technologies to ensure ease of work, dignified employment and long-term career opportunities. The port also houses a dedicated training institute for capacity building, including initiatives focused on training local women and promoting organic farming practices.
At the onset of the meeting, Majid Pandit, Media & Communication Officer, PIB Srinagar, who is also the Conducting Officer for the tour to Kerala introduced the members of the press delegation. The visit to Vizhinjam Port is part of a five-day media outreach programme by PIB Srinagar aimed at providing journalists with first-hand exposure to key national infrastructure projects, research institutions and government initiatives.
