Thiruvananthapuram, Jan 24 (NationPress) On Saturday, Kerala celebrated a significant milestone in its infrastructural advancement with the official unveiling of Phase II of the Vizhinjam International Seaport, a venture that has swiftly elevated the state's position in the global maritime logistics sector.

In his address, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan emphasized that the port's development effectively challenges the longstanding narrative that "nothing progresses in Kerala," asserting that Vizhinjam has already secured the state's place in international shipping lanes.

“Having been operational for over a year, Vizhinjam has become an exceptional case of success in port infrastructure. The first mothership docked in July 2024, and the port was officially inaugurated for national use in May 2025. Initially designed to accommodate one million TEUs annually, the port achieved this target within just ten months, managing 615 vessels and 1.32 million containers in its inaugural year—a feat few ports globally can boast. In December 2025 alone, it processed 121,000 TEUs, attracting some of the largest and deepest-draft container ships,” Vijayan noted.

Union Minister for Shipping, Ports and Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal, remarked that Kerala holds a crucial position in India’s maritime future, labeling the state a pivotal conduit between India and the world.

He highlighted that under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership, the significance of shipping has seen a resurgence, with India's maritime capabilities expanding considerably over the last decade.

According to Union Minister Sonowal, Vizhinjam symbolizes this transformation, exemplified by its robust operational metrics.

The launch of Phase II at Vizhinjam Port signifies a substantial capacity enhancement. The container berth will extend from 800 to 2,000 meters, making it the longest in the nation, while the breakwater will increase from 2.96 to 3.88 kilometers.

Additionally, twelve new ship-to-shore cranes and 27 yard cranes will be introduced, enabling the port to accommodate next-generation vessels of up to 28,840 TEUs and allow five motherships to dock simultaneously.

Union Minister Sonowal emphasized that Vizhinjam is the first port in India to employ women as automated crane operators, establishing a national standard.

With immigration clearance achieved and the road connection to the national highway finalized, Vizhinjam is set to transition from a national transshipment terminal to a comprehensive international transshipment hub, further solidifying Kerala's expanding influence in global maritime trade.