Thiruvananthapuram: The Vizhinjam port is getting ready for commissioning , with the construction of an extended berth almost nearing completion. The new 800m berth will be ready in the next 15-20 days. The transshipment port , developed by Adani Ports , will be able to accommodate two large or three smaller container ships simultaneously.
The existing 600m berth is being expanded by 200 meters and is expected to be completed in time for the port’s commissioning in Oct, according to a port official. The port is currently undergoing testing. The breakwater, for which work has already been completed, and the 800m berth are part of the phase 1 work of the project.
“There is no need for additional cranes, as we now have 32 cranes in the 600m berth. These cranes can be relocated as needed when the extension is completed,” he added. The port's semi-automated systems are designed to speed up loading, unloading, and container handling.
Further expansion of the port will take place in two more phases, ultimately extending the container berth to 2,000m. This extension will allow the port to accommodate up to five ships at a time when all the work is completed by 2028. The project will also involve reclaiming around 129 acres from the sea.
Shipping companies have shown huge interest in using Vizhinjam port as alternatives like Colombo and Singapore face congestion issues. During the trial phase, ships are being brought in gradually to test and optimize processes. “Ships are bein.