THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Adani Vizhinjam Port Company CEO Rajesh Jha stated that if the quiet Mundra Port in Gujarat can become a significant hub, Vizhinjam Port and Thiruvananthapuram have the potential to achieve remarkable success. He delivered a keynote address at a seminar organized by Kerala Kaumudi on 'Vizhinjam Port's Realization.'

Yesterday marked a historic day as the dream of Vizhinjam Port became a reality. The integration of Vizhinjam Port and Airport creates a unique infrastructure that is unmatched by any other Indian city. This is truly a significant development for Thiruvananthapuram.

India's largest container port is situated in Mundra, Gujarat. 25 years ago, Mundra had no hotels, accommodations, or hospitals. Today, it stands as the country's first port city, even though it's considered a minor port, handling 175 million tonnes of cargo. If Mundra can achieve this, it's exciting to think about what Thiruvananthapuram and Vizhinjam can accomplish when they work together.

What might take days in Mundra can be done in hours in Thiruvananthapuram, thanks to its proximity to the main sea route, which is only three or four miles away. The strong turnout at yesterday's opening ceremony demonstrates the public's enthusiasm for Vizhinjam Port. People from all walks of life, regardless of their background, came together to celebrate this occasion. With this merger, Thiruvananthapuram is set to become the world's largest maritime city and it has the capacity to support that vision.

The support from the State Government, Ports Minister Ahmed Devarkovil, Shashi Tharoor and the Trivandrum Chamber of Commerce and Industry is vital for the project's realization and future endeavours. Key participants in this event included Planning Board Member Dr K. Raviraman, Trivandrum Chamber of Commerce & Industry President S. N. Raghuchandran Nair, Vizhinjam Mother Port Action Committee (VMAC) President Elias John, Marine-Shipping Expert Nanu Vishwanath, Port People's Association General Convener Venganur Gopakumar, Kerala Kaumudi Deputy General Manager R. Chandradutt and others.

Shashi Tharoor extended his appreciation to Kerala Kaumudi, recognizing Hearsap Regional Manager Liju and KTE Holidays and Leisure India MD Charlie Varghese. Kerala Kaumudi Thiruvananthapuram Unit Chief S. Vikraman welcomed the attendees, while Corporate Manager Shiraz Jalal delivered the vote of thanks.