Thiruvananthapuram: The Vizhinjam International Seaport has set a world-class benchmark by handling 1 million containers within just nine months of its commercial launch, astonishing the global maritime industry.
Ports Minister V. N. Vasavan announced the achievement on Tuesday, crediting the state government, fishing community, security agencies, shipping companies, and Adani Vizhinjam Port’s operational efficiency for the success.
Originally expected to manage 300,000 containers in its first year, Vizhinjam has already handled over three times that figure — 1.012 million TEUs. Operations began on December 3, 2024, and the port is projected to cross 1.4 million containers by year-end.
Since opening, Vizhinjam has welcomed 460+ vessels, including 27 Ultra Large Container Vessels (ULCVs), and made history when the world’s largest cargo ship, MSC Irina, berthed here — a first in South Asia.
With direct services now linking Europe, the U.S., Africa, and China, Vizhinjam is positioning itself alongside global hubs like Colombo, Singapore, and Dubai.
Minister Vasavan hailed the milestone as not just Kerala’s pride but a turning point for India’s maritime trade, reducing costly reliance on foreign ports for transshipment and saving hundreds of crores of rupees. Road and rail links to the port are also progressing on schedule, Minister added.
