In less than nine months since opening for commercial operations, Adani Group’s Vizhinjam International Seaport has crossed a major milestone, handling over 1 million twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs). Operated by Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone (APSEZ), the port has not only exceeded initial expectations but is also reshaping India’s maritime landscape.
At a ceremony marking this achievement, Kerala’s Ports Minister V. N. Vasavan highlighted that reaching 1 million TEUs in just nine months is a proud moment for both Kerala and India as an emerging maritime power. He also noted that the port’s second phase will start soon, with new railway and road links under development.
Since its launch on December 3, 2024, Vizhinjam has already welcomed over 460 vessels, including 26 ultra-large container vessels (ULCVs) up to 399.99 meters long. Initially, the port was expected to handle only 30% of its one-million TEU capacity in the first year, but it achieved full-scale throughput much faster than planned.
Officials attribute this success to strong collaboration between the government, local communities, and APSEZ, as well as the port’s structural advantages and the group’s operational expertise. The performance positions Vizhinjam alongside some of the world’s top ports, particularly in efficiently handling large parcel exchanges. A record example is the MSC Paloma, which saw 10,576 TEUs exchanged, setting a new benchmark in India.
This rapid growth reflects careful planning, optimized crane deployment, and high berth utilization. APSEZ’s operational discipline has helped Vizhinjam emerge as Southern India’s largest container terminal within its first year.
Geography and technology are key to Vizhinjam’s success. Situated near major East-West shipping routes, the port reduces vessel transit times and costs. Its natural draft of 18.5 meters allows even the largest ULCVs to dock without dredging, a rare advantage for deep-water ports globally.
Technology further enhances efficiency. The port uses 8 ship-to-shore cranes and 24 automated cantilever rail-mounted gantry cranes, all supported by AI and IoT systems for real-time cargo tracking. Full automation ensures faster turnaround times and scalable operations for future growth.
Industry analysts note that Vizhinjam is shifting trade dynamics. Direct connectivity to Europe, the US, Africa, and the Far East reduces the need for Indian cargo to pass through foreign hubs, boosting self-reliance in maritime logistics while cutting costs and transit times for exporters and importers.
EXIM (export-import) operations are set to start in the fourth quarter of this financial year, opening new trade opportunities and strengthening the port’s role as a southern gateway for global commerce.
On sustainability, Vizhinjam incorporates eco-conscious infrastructure, renewable energy, and strict compliance with Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change guidelines. The port exemplifies India’s Green Shipping Revolution by reducing emissions, improving energy efficiency, and embedding environmental responsibility into its growth model.
Hitting 1 million TEUs is only the beginning. With EXIM operations ramping up and green initiatives expanding, Vizhinjam is poised to become a global benchmark for deep-water ports, a model of infrastructure that is both world-class and future-proof.
