Kerala is preparing to announce a series of major maritime development projects aimed at attracting large investments and strengthening the state’s port infrastructure, Chief Minister V. D. Satheesan has said.
In an exclusive interview with Channeliam founder Nisha Krishnan during the Huddle Global Summit in Kovalam, the Chief Minister said the government had completed six months of detailed studies and reviews before finalising its plans.
The projects will focus on developing ports, expanding logistics facilities, attracting port-based industries and creating new opportunities in coastal tourism.
Vizhinjam to Become Gateway for Kerala’s Maritime Growth
The Chief Minister said the proposed amendments to the Kerala Maritime Board legislation would support the state’s ambition to develop Kerala as a major port and maritime hub.
Vizhinjam International Seaport will serve as an important gateway for this development.
However, the government’s plans will not be limited to Vizhinjam.
Major projects are also being prepared to develop Kerala’s 18 other ports and Cochin Port, with investment opportunities both inside and outside port areas.
The Chief Minister said the projects are designed to attract significant investments and support industries connected to maritime trade.
Kerala Aims to Move 50% of Cargo by Sea
One of the government’s major goals is to shift nearly 50% of Kerala’s cargo transportation to sea routes.
According to the Chief Minister, greater use of coastal shipping could reduce logistics costs to nearly one-third of current levels.
It could also reduce the number of heavy vehicles on roads, helping ease traffic congestion.
The government believes that improving maritime transport will make the movement of goods more efficient and create opportunities for businesses across Kerala.
Cruise Terminals Planned in Kochi and Kozhikode
Kerala is also exploring new cruise tourism projects, including cruise terminals in Kochi and Kozhikode.
The Chief Minister said plans are being considered for cruise services connecting Kerala with Dubai, the Maldives and Colombo.
A passenger vessel service between Beypore and Lakshadweep is also expected to begin soon.
According to the Chief Minister, the proposed service could complete the journey from Beypore to Lakshadweep in approximately five hours.
These services are expected to strengthen Kerala’s connections with international and domestic tourism destinations.
Plans to Connect Kerala’s 44 Rivers with Tourism
The government also wants to connect maritime tourism with Kerala’s inland waterways.
The Chief Minister said the state’s 44 rivers could be integrated into tourism development plans.
This could create new opportunities for river cruises, inland water transport and tourism-related businesses.
By connecting ports, coastal destinations and rivers, Kerala aims to develop a wider tourism network.
Focus on Port-Based Industries and GCC Investment
The government is placing greater emphasis on industries that can benefit from being located near ports.
Land acquisition and development activities are underway to support these projects.
The Chief Minister said Kerala is receiving interest from investors within India and abroad, with particularly strong opportunities for investment from Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries.
The proposed developments are expected to create opportunities in logistics, manufacturing, tourism, shipping and related services.
New Project Announcements to Begin Next Month
The Chief Minister said the planning stage for the maritime projects had largely been completed and the government was now preparing to move towards implementation.
Project announcements are expected to begin next month, he said.
The government’s wider goal is to use Kerala’s coastline, ports and waterways to attract investment, improve transport infrastructure and create new economic opportunities.
With Vizhinjam as a gateway and development planned across other ports, Kerala is preparing for a major expansion of its maritime economy.
