Prime Minister Narendra Modi officially inaugurated the Vizhinjam International Seaport on May 2, marking its entry into the global maritime network. With the first phase operational, Vizhinjam becomes India’s first semi-automated deep sea transshipment hub, designed to handle the world’s largest cargo vessels.
Economic and Strategic Impact
The Prime Minister emphasized the significance of the port by stating that “the nation’s money will now remain within the country,” underlining that Vizhinjam will contribute to India’s and Kerala’s economic stability. Modi also mentioned that Vizhinjam has now surpassed even Gujarat in terms of port size, humorously noting that people from Gujarat might now have complaints.
Adani Group, which completed the port’s construction, has been operating ports in Gujarat for 30 years, but Modi pointed out that their largest port is now in Kerala. Vizhinjam, he said, symbolizes a new chapter of development and will reduce India’s dependency on foreign ports, which currently handle 70% of the nation’s transshipment cargo.
Technological Advancement and Operational Efficiency
After visiting the port’s operation center and inspecting the infrastructure, the Prime Minister arrived at the venue around 11 am. He began his speech with a greeting in Malayalam and described Vizhinjam as a model for future development, highlighting its ability to accommodate large vessels with speed and efficiency.
Kerala Government’s Role and Vision
Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan called Vizhinjam the gateway to India’s development potential in the third millennium. He credited the success of the project to the determination of the LDF government and said it was a proud moment for Kerala. He added that Vizhinjam will become one of the world’s most noted ports.
Inauguration Ceremony Attendance
The commissioning event drew a large crowd, with thousands arriving to witness the historic moment. Among the dignitaries present were Governor Rajendra Arlekar, Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal, MPs Suresh Gopi and Shashi Tharoor, Minister V.N. Vasavan, and Adani Group Chairman Gautam Adani. The Prime Minister arrived at the port via helicopter from Pangode military base and inspected the modern facilities before officially commissioning the port.
