Vizhinjam Port Welcomes First Container Ship, Marking a Historic Milestone in Indian Maritime

The historic berthing of the mothership 'San Fernando' at Vizhinjam International Seaport marks a new era for India's maritime industry. This port features state-of-the-art infrastructure, and both Kerala Government and Adani Vizhinjam Port have invested Rs 20,000 crore. The port will create over 5,500 jobs.

On Friday, the mothership 'San Fernando' berthed at the new Vizhinjam International Seaport, marking a historic milestone in India's maritime industry. The event signifies India's entry into global transshipment, positioning Vizhinjam as a key player in international trade routes. The port's significance was highlighted by Karan Adani, Managing Director of Adani Ports and SEZ Limited (APSEZ), who said, 'San Fernando—now berthed at our harbour—is a symbol of a new, glorious achievement in Indian maritime history. It is a messenger that will tell the world that India's first transshipment terminal and the largest deepwater port has begun commercial operations.'

Spearheading this monumental project, Karan Adani disclosed that by 2028-29, both the Kerala Government and Adani Vizhinjam Port would have invested a total of Rs 20,000 crore. 'By 2028-29, when all four phases of this project are completed, the Kerala Government and Adani Vizhinjam Port will have invested a total of Rs 20,000 crore in this outstanding example of a large-scale PPP project,' said Adani.

The mothership 'San Fernando', owned by SFL Corporation Ltd and chartered by Maersk- (AP Moller Group), Denmark, reached the outer area of the port around 7 am on Thursday and berthed by 9:50 am, receiving a water salute. The Vizhinjam port is India's first automated port with world-class infrastructure, capable of handling large ships. Gautam Adani, Chairman and founder of the Adani group of companies, hailed the event as a historic occasion, posting on X, 'Historic Day as Vizhinjam welcomes its 1st container vessel! This milestone marks India's entry into global transshipment and ushers in a new era in India's maritime logistics, positioning Vizhinjam as a key player in global trade routes. Jai Hind!'

(With inputs from agencies.)