Thiruvananthapuram, Jan 24 (NationPress) Karan Adani, the Managing Director of Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone (APSEZ), announced on Saturday that the Vizhinjam International Seaport represents the most substantial commitment of investment by any business entity in Kerala, with an upcoming investment of Rs 16,000 crore.

During the ceremonial laying of the foundation stone for Phase-2 of Vizhinjam Port, Karan Adani stated that the port has already established a significant presence on the global stage shortly after its operational commencement.

"In merely 15 months of commercial operations, Vizhinjam has set the record as the fastest Indian port to process one million TEUs, effectively positioning Kerala on the global shipping landscape. Today, as we initiate the foundation for Phase-2, we are not simply enlarging a port; we are enhancing a national capability," he remarked.

Adani revealed that the second phase will witness an additional investment of Rs 16,000 crore, raising the total investment to Rs 30,000 crore. This expansion is projected to elevate the port's capacity from 1 million TEUs to 5.7 million TEUs by 2029.

"This is the most significant investment made by any business entity in the State of Kerala," he emphasized.

Adani highlighted the strategic significance of Vizhinjam, asserting that it will develop into the largest transshipment hub in the Indian subcontinent and a globally competitive maritime center.

"In addition to being the largest transshipment port, Vizhinjam will also rank as the most technologically advanced port in India. It will serve as a benchmark for future Indian ports' operations," he added.

Stressing the bipartisan political backing behind the initiative, Adani remarked that large infrastructure projects transcend individual administrations.

"Projects of this national significance are not exclusive to a single government or moment in time. Vizhinjam is the culmination of enduring political commitment across various administrations and party lines," he noted, acknowledging former Chief Minister Oommen Chandy's role.

"Under his leadership, the project was awarded and gained initial momentum. His faith in Vizhinjam as a transformative opportunity for Kerala laid the groundwork for today's achievements," Adani stated.

He also recognized Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan for advancing the vision with unwavering determination.

"Successful transformative infrastructure projects rely not only on engineering prowess, but also on political clarity, administrative discipline, and long-term dedication. The Chief Minister’s consistent support—through complexity, scale, and challenges—has been crucial in turning a long-held aspiration into a nationally and globally significant maritime asset," he said.

"I must acknowledge that this project would not have materialized without his ongoing support. He has been the most valuable asset an investor could wish for when executing such a large-scale greenfield project," Adani added.

He also expressed gratitude towards Leader of the Opposition V.D. Satheesan and Thiruvananthapuram MP Shashi Tharoor.

"Such bipartisan collaboration sends a strong message—to investors, industries, and the world—that when it comes to Kerala's long-term interests, political differences yield to a collective purpose," he stated.

Adani characterized Vizhinjam as a prime example of cooperative federalism and expressed his honor at the presence of Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal.

"Under the visionary leadership of the Prime Minister, port-led development has become a strategic cornerstone of India’s economic advancement. In an impressively short time, Vizhinjam has showcased the possibilities that arise when vision, execution, and partnership converge," he concluded.