In an exclusive interview with Nisha Krishnan, CEO of Channeliam.com, Pradeep Jayaraman, the CEO of Adani Vizhinjam Port Pvt Ltd, discusses the significance of the Vizhinjam Port project and how it will transform India’s maritime sector. The port, located in Kerala, is a major initiative by the Adani Group in partnership with the state government and is set to become one of India’s first deep-water container transshipment hubs.
Introduction to Vizhinjam Port
Vizhinjam Port, an ambitious infrastructure project by Adani Group in partnership with the Kerala state government, is set to revolutionize India’s maritime industry. Initiated in December 2015, this deep-water container transshipment hub is poised to become one of India’s first such facilities. Its construction and operation will position India on the global maritime map, creating new opportunities for trade and economic growth.
Transforming India’s Transshipment Landscape
Historically, India has not had a dedicated transshipment terminal, with operations spread across existing ports such as Mumbai and Mundra. The east coast, in particular, has struggled to accommodate large vessels due to insufficient depth. As a result, most of India’s exports are routed through ports like Colombo, Singapore, and Malaysia, leading to added costs and time delays. These factors have placed Indian exporters at a significant disadvantage compared to other countries.
The Vizhinjam Port will address these challenges by providing a direct transshipment facility, eliminating the need for rerouting through foreign ports. This change will not only reduce costs but also speed up the shipping process, offering a competitive edge to Indian exporters. Though the project is based in Kerala, its impact will be felt across India, particularly benefiting the southern and eastern regions.
Economic Implications for Kerala
While the main focus of Vizhinjam Port is on transshipment, it has the potential to evolve into a gateway port, attracting global trade and enhancing the state’s economy. Currently, goods from southern India, including industrialized regions, are transported by road to Mumbai (approximately 1,300 kilometers away) for export. With Vizhinjam’s development, exporters will gain direct access to global markets, bypassing the need for rerouting through other international ports. This streamlined process will save both time and money, benefiting the exporters and providing a more efficient global trade route.
The port’s potential is amplified by Kerala’s proactive industrial policies. The development of logistics parks, fulfillment centers, and export-oriented industries around Vizhinjam will transform the region. The first phase will focus on logistics infrastructure, followed by the establishment of industries that import raw materials and export manufactured goods. In the long term, this could lead to a more industrialized and consumption-driven economy in Kerala.
The Vision for a Multi-Cargo Port
In addition to container handling, Adani Group envisions expanding Vizhinjam Port’s capabilities to handle dry and liquid cargo. This multi-cargo approach will diversify the port’s services and ensure that it becomes a critical hub for various types of goods. This commitment to developing a versatile, multi-cargo port sets Vizhinjam apart as an integrated maritime solution for India.
Looking Ahead: A Bright Future for Vizhinjam
The development of Vizhinjam Port is just the beginning. Over the next three to five years, significant advancements are expected, transforming the region into a key player in global maritime trade. As the port develops, it will play a crucial role in boosting Kerala’s economy, fostering industrial growth, and enhancing India’s position in the international maritime industry.
