India and Kerala to the skies; PM dedicates Vizhinjam International Seaport to nation

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Prime Minister Narendra Modi dedicated Kerala's dream project, Vizhinjam International Seaport, to the nation. Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, Governor Rajendra Arlekar, Union Minister for Ports Sarbananda Sonowal, Union Ministers Suresh Gopi, George Kurien, Minister V N Vasavan, Shashi Tharoor MP, Adani Group Chairman Gautam Adani and others were present at the function.

Gautam Adani received the Prime Minister by draping a ponnada. He also presented a memento. Ports Minister V N Vasavan delivered a congratulatory speech. V N Vasavan described Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan as a karmayogi. Vasavan also said that the chief minister and the Left government have implemented the project in a manner that makes sense when they said that nothing can be done in our country, everything is possible.

The chief minister began his speech by remembering those killed in the Pahalgam terror attack. Their loss reminds us of the urgent need to remain united in defending our nation from anti-national and divisive forces. We achieved everything. This is a proud moment for all of us, as the commissioning of this port marks the dawn of a modern era. The Hon'ble Prime Minister's presence makes this occasion even more special and brings great joy to all of us. It also makes us optimistic about the bright future of this sea port. The unity and solidarity of the country provided the energy to complete the project. The state bore the major share of the port cost. He also said that this is the birth of a new era for Kerala.

Modi, who arrived in Vizhinjam by helicopter from the Pangode military base in the morning, walked around the port. Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan was also with the Prime Minister. Only three had the opportunity to speak at the event. After the commissioning ceremony, the Prime Minister will speak from 11.15 to 12 noon.

Ministers and prominent figures from the political and cultural fields attended the event. Thousands of people came to Vizhinjam to witness the proud moment. There was a special KSRTC service from Thiruvananthapuram city to Vizhinjam. Heavy security has been arranged in the city in the wake of constant fake bomb threats.

In the wake of the Pahalgam attack, tight security was arranged in the city. Traffic restrictions have been imposed in the city and adjoining roads.