The Vizhinjam International Seaport in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, celebrated the arrival of its first mothership, 'San Fernando', owned by SFL Corporation Ltd. and chartered by Maersk (AP Moller Group) from Denmark. The 300-meter-long cargo ship docked at the port after receiving a water salute upon arrival. It is set to offload 1,900 containers, marking a significant milestone for the port's operational capabilities.
Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan will officially welcome the vessel during a ceremony scheduled for Friday at 10 am. Union Minister of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal will also be present as the chief guest for the event.
CM Vijayan expressed excitement about the port's development, describing it as a long-awaited dream coming to fruition. He highlighted the substantial investment in the seaport, totaling Rs 8,867 crore, with contributions from both the state and central governments. The port, developed under a public-private partnership (PPP) model with Adani Ports as the private partner, is expected to generate over 5,000 direct jobs.
Situated strategically with a natural draft of 18–20 meters, Vizhinjam International Seaport is ideally positioned near the international East-West shipping route, enhancing its potential to become a key hub for container business in India.
