Fourth phase of Vizhinjam seaport to be completed by 2028; over 5000 jobs will be created, investment of Rs 10000 cr

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Speaking at the official reception of mothership San Fernando at Vizhinjam Seaport, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan said that second, third and fourth phases of the port will be completed in 2028. He also said that Kerala will become the container business hub of the country.

"As Vizhinjam becomes a full-fledged port, there will be investments worth Rs 10,000 crores. 5000 jobs will be created. A port-based job training centre will be started at a cost of 50 crores. Vizhinjam will also benefit the neighboring countries. The international importance of the country will increase further," he said.

"Out of Rs 8867 crore expense for the port, 5595 crore is borne by the state. Central share is only 818 crores. So Vizhinjam is the port of the state. The Centre proposed Rs 8 crore for rehabilitation while the state has spent Rs 100 crore. A package of Rs 5000 crores has been requested in the central budget for the port. This is the moment of dream come true. The goal is not to rest anymore, but to raise Kerala to the level of developed countries," he added.

The ship was received yesterday morning by the Chief Minister, Union Ports Minister Sarbanand Sonowal and state ministers. The Chief Minister unveiled the plaque marking the arrival of the first mother ship. The ceremony was made more eventful with chendamelam and cheers.

Vizhinjam will be made into an industrial corridor: Karan Adani

Karan Adani, Managing Director of Adani Ports, said that a modern fishing harbour, outer ring road to the harbour, seafood park, cruise tourism facilities and industrial corridor will be built. 2000 jobs created in manufacturing and operations. 5500 people will get employment in future. Hundreds of youth will be trained at the skill development centre.

People flocked to Vizhinjam

People flocked to see the San Fernando

Coloured balloons were flown by the Chief Minister and Ministers. The Chief Minister took a picture in front of the ship

The Chief Minister gave gifts to the Russian Captain Arenko and his crew who sailed the ship

Danish company Maersk's ship will return to Colombo today after unloading containers.