Posted On:
26 FEB 2026 7:22PM by PIB Imphal
The media delegation from the Press Information Bureau (PIB), Imphal, currently on a press tour in Kerala, visited the Vizhinjam International Seaport on Thursday as part of the concluding leg of their tour. The delegation, which began its visit on February 22, is scheduled to return to Imphal on February 27.
The delegation was received by Pradeep Jayaraman, CEO of Adani Vizhinjam Port, along with Mahesh Guptan, Head of Communications, and other officials, who interacted with the team and presented a comprehensive overview of the project.
The delegation was briefed on the development of the seaport, its key milestones, and future expansion plans. Officials explained the strategic importance of the port’s geographical location and the rationale behind selecting Vizhinjam as the site for developing a world-class transshipment hub.
Mr. Jayaraman elaborated on the success of the first phase of the project and outlined the roadmap for the upcoming phases of development. He informed that Vizhinjam Port is India’s first semi-automated port equipped with advanced AI-powered systems. The port also features the country’s deepest draft and the longest breakwater, positioning it as a significant milestone in India’s maritime infrastructure.
During the visit, port officials made a detailed presentation highlighting the state-of-the-art infrastructure, operational capabilities, and future expansion plans of the deep-water transshipment facility. They informed that Vizhinjam International Seaport has set new standards through technology-driven and inclusive operations, emerging as India’s first semi-automated container port with high levels of efficiency, safety, and reliability. The port is also the first in the country to deploy women automated crane operators, reflecting a progressive step towards promoting gender diversity in maritime operations. The integration of advanced indigenous technology, including a state-of-the-art Vehicle Traffic Management System, has enabled smoother and faster landside cargo movement.
Officials further stated that the port’s operational excellence is supported by strong infrastructure, including a 3-kilometre-long breakwater measuring 28 metres in height and 125 metres in width—one of the largest in India—and a natural draft of 18–20 metres, allowing ultra-large container vessels to berth without extensive dredging. The area’s minimal littoral drift ensures uninterrupted operations throughout the year. Strategically located near major East–West international shipping routes, Vizhinjam is fast emerging as India’s leading deep-water transshipment hub. Its capacity to handle some of the world’s largest vessels enhances India’s standing in global maritime trade and logistics.
The officials also informed the delegation that the port has handled a total of 782 ships so far and processed around 16.6 lakh TEUs, reflecting its growing operational capacity and strategic importance in strengthening India’s transshipment and maritime logistics capabilities. They further highlighted that the port deploys cutting-edge automation and digital technologies to ensure efficient and safe operations. Remotely operated STS cranes enable all-weather functioning with minimal downtime and high productivity, while automated yard cranes enhance efficiency through remote monitoring and exception handling.
The delegation was also informed that the full development of the port has been significantly accelerated. While the project was originally planned to be executed in phases up to 2045, authorities are now targeting the completion of all phases by December 2028. This fast-tracked approach is expected to enhance India’s transshipment capacity, reduce dependence on foreign ports, and strengthen the country’s position as a global maritime hub.
During the course of the press tour, the delegation visited several prominent institutions and flagship initiatives, including the Kochi Water Metro (Vyttila–Fort Kochi stretch), the Rubber Board, the Kochi-Muziris Biennale, and the Indian Institute of Space Science and Technology, along with visits to key cultural and tourism destinations.
The tour was coordinated by Moirangthem Rustum, Assistant Director, Central Bureau of Communication, Field Office Chandel, who accompanied the delegation as the Conducting Officer, along with Shri Thokchom Rabichandra, Information Assistant, Press Information Bureau, Imphal.
These engagements were aimed at showcasing India’s progress in infrastructure development, scientific research, innovation, and the promotion of cultural heritage.
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MRS/RCT