Kerala is preparing to strengthen its maritime ecosystem around the fast-growing Vizhinjam International Seaport by upgrading the nearby Vizhinjam minor port into a dedicated logistics and cargo support hub under a public-private partnership (PPP) model. The move is aimed at improving cargo handling capacity and building a more integrated port-based logistics network in the region.
The Kerala Maritime Board (KMB) has submitted a proposal to the state government seeking approval for the redevelopment of the underutilised minor port. The plan focuses on aligning its infrastructure with the adjacent international container terminal, enabling smoother cargo movement and improving overall operational efficiency as trade volumes continue to rise.
While the full-scale PPP development will take time to roll out, the board has already begun interim steps to attract private participation. As part of this, it has invited bids from companies to lease existing warehouse facilities near the port for cargo storage, logistics operations, and related commercial services.
According to the tender issued earlier this month, the selected bidder will be granted a three-year lease to manage warehouse operations, including storage and value-added logistics services connected to the international seaport. Applications have been opened through the state’s e-tender platform, with the submission deadline set for late July.
The initiative comes at a time when Vizhinjam International Seaport is witnessing strong growth momentum. The port has recently crossed the two-million TEU milestone within just 18 months of operations. Increasing gateway cargo movement and ongoing capacity expansion projects are driving higher demand for warehousing facilities, logistics infrastructure, and multimodal transport connectivity in the region.
