Kerala’s Vizhinjam shipyard project could transform state into maritime hub

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Kerala could emerge as a major maritime hub with the development of a shipyard linked to the Vizhinjam Port, which is capable of handling some of the world’s largest vessels. The state budget has announced plans to acquire and hand over land for a shipbuilding and repair facility that can construct and service mother ships. The Union Shipping Ministry has suggested identifying 2,500 to 3,000 acres of coastal land for the project. The Centre has also announced a Rs 20,000-crore package to support shipbuilding projects. A public-private partnership model is being considered for setting up the proposed shipyard.

The Maritime Board is currently examining whether such a large area of land can be found. The government is also considering identifying separate locations for building barges, tugs, and mini cruise ships. If the project is included under the Centre’s Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision-2047, Kerala is expected to receive central support. The Centre has planned projects worth Rs 80 lakh crore under the maritime development programme. The Centre had earlier asked Kerala to appoint a senior IAS officer to coordinate the project, but no action was taken on the request.

Poovar considered suitable location
A feasibility study was conducted earlier at Poovar, located around 10 km from Vizhinjam, for setting up the shipyard. A study by the Cochin Port Trust found that the location has a natural sea depth of around 13 metres up to half a kilometre from the shore. The location is considered suitable for building even large mother ships that can carry more than 20,000 containers. Another advantage is that it is only 10 nautical miles away from the international shipping route. The shipyard project could bring large-scale investments and create many job opportunities.

Land acquisition remains a challenge
Acquiring 2,500 acres of coastal land is the biggest challenge. The Centre has suggested that the location should have enough sea depth to build commercial ships.

Tamil Nadu begins shipyard project in Thoothukudi
Tamil Nadu has started steps to set up a shipyard in Thoothukudi in partnership with South Korean company Hyundai. The project is estimated to cost Rs 38,000 crore. The state has received preliminary approval from the Centre and has formed a company in partnership with HD Korea Shipbuilding.

Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision- Rs 80 lakh crore plan

The Centre’s Maritime Amrit Kaal infrastructure development programme aims to support sustainable growth in coastal states. The Rs 80 lakh crore plan includes:
Shipbuilding and ship repair clusters
River cruise projects
Inland water transport projects
Port development

• Cost to build one cargo ship: Rs 2,000 crore
• Expected employment opportunities: 15,000 jobs

“The government will acquire land and develop the infrastructure required for the shipbuilding centre. Reservation will be provided for people from coastal areas in employment opportunities.”
- V.D. Satheesan, Chief Minister