Vizhinjam seaport to rival Singapore and Colombo ports as Centre plans big

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The central government is planning to make the Vizhinjam port a world-class port by 2047. It will also be equipped with world-class infrastructure to rival global transshipment ports like Singapore and Colombo.

It will be developed in a phased manner as part of the 'Amrit Kaal 2047' vision. The master plan will be prepared by 2025 and technical and financial feasibility reports by 2026. An agency will be appointed to prepare the master plan. Guidance in this regard has been included in the Maritime Amritkal Vision of the Union Ministry of Ports and Shipping.

According to the Amrit Kaal Vision report, the sea has a natural depth of 20 meters and is only 10 nautical miles (18 km) from the international shipping lane. As per international standards, six cranes will be installed for each ship to be able to load and unload 200 containers per hour. It enables quick loading and unloading of containers from ships. The work is progressing at a rapid pace with an aim to make the first phase of the port operational by May 2024.

A financial plan
1. Demarcation of Vizhinjam port area, availability of land, dredging if more depth is required, financial plan will be included in the master plan.

2. Coastal Zone Regulation approval will be obtained by 2028. If more land is required, it will be acquired

3. The existing detailed project document will be revised or a new one will be prepared. The DPR should include the expected number of vessels.

Amrit Kaal 2047

The period 2023-2047 is the Amritkalam (Golden Age) which is set to achieve growth in various sectors for the country. The goal is to bring growth to the country in various fields in 2047, which celebrates the centenary of independence. This idea was put forward by Prime Minister Narendra Modi during the 75th Independence Day celebrations.