The Vizhinjam International Port, a deep-sea port in Kerala, India, is poised to commence its gateway container operations within the next four months, according to Kerala Port Minister V N Vasavan.

During a session in the state Assembly, Minister Vasavan addressed concerns raised by V Joy (CPI-M) regarding the current operational status of the port. Joy questioned the timeline for the commencement of gateway operations, as the port was primarily engaged in transshipment, where containers are transferred between ships for onward journey.

In response, Vasavan assured the Assembly that the necessary preparations are underway to facilitate the launch of gateway container operations. "The gateway container operations, taking cargo to and from the port, will begin within four months," he stated. "The arrangements of the Customs Department and steps to install container scanners are progressing there in a way to make the operations begin within four months."

The installation of container scanners is a pivotal aspect of this transition, ensuring efficient and secure handling of import and export cargo. These scanners are essential for customs clearance and play a crucial role in streamlining the movement of goods through the port.

The Vizhinjam Port has already demonstrated its operational efficiency, with 215 ships having called at the port and a total of 422,846 TEUs (Twenty-foot Equivalent Units) handled. Notably, in February, the port achieved the distinction of being the top port in the country, handling 78,833 TEUs from 40 vessels.

Adding to the positive momentum, the port recently secured environmental clearance from the Union Environment Ministry for the next two phases of its construction. This clearance is vital for the port's full development, which is projected to be completed by 2028. Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan emphasized the importance of this clearance, stating that it ensures the timely completion of the project.

Developed by Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone Ltd (APSEZ), under a public-private partnership model with an estimated cost of Rs 8,867 crore, the Vizhinjam Port is a significant infrastructure project for the region. The port received its commercial commissioning certificate on December 4 last year, following a successful trial run.

The state government has indicated that the full commissioning of the port will take place once Prime Minister Narendra Modi finalizes a date. This signifies the national importance of the Vizhinjam project, which is expected to bolster India's maritime trade and connectivity.

The commencement of gateway container operations will enable the port to handle direct import and export cargo.