The Vizhinjam International Seaport, under the management of Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone (APSEZ), has just notched up a monumental achievement. It successfully berthed the MSC Verona, a colossal container ship, boasting an impressive draft of 17.1 meters. This remarkable feat officially establishes a new national record for India, welcoming the deepest draft container vessel ever handled at any port in the country.
This historic berthing was celebrated even further as the MSC Verona marked the 500th vessel to call at Vizhinjam. This is an extraordinary accomplishment, considering the port only commenced commercial operations in December 2024—a mere ten months prior. Among these 500 vessels, an impressive 28 were Ultra Large Container Vessels (ULCVs), a number unparalleled by any other Indian port. In this remarkably short timeframe, Vizhinjam has already processed 1.1 million TEUs (twenty-foot equivalent units), significantly exceeding its initial annual capacity projections.
These outstanding figures unequivocally highlight Vizhinjam Port’s critical strategic importance within India’s expansive maritime infrastructure. Its burgeoning role in propelling global trade is undeniable. Blessed with a natural depth ranging from 18 to 20 meters and negligible littoral drift, Vizhinjam possesses an unparalleled advantage, making it perfectly suited to handle the largest container vessels on the planet. Its advanced capabilities are swiftly positioning it as India’s leading deep-water transshipment hub, forging seamless connections between the nation and vital international trade routes, thereby solidifying its influence in the global shipping arena.
Port Minister V.N. Vasavan emphasized the global significance of Vizhinjam, stating, “The 500 ships berthed in such a short period clearly demonstrate Vizhinjam’s crucial role in world cargo shipping.” He further remarked on the port’s continuous progress, adding that “Vizhinjam is growing with each step.” The port’s successes not only underscore India’s advancing maritime capabilities but also serve as a testament to how exceptional infrastructure and foresightful strategic planning are opening up unprecedented avenues for commerce, trade, and connectivity across the nation and beyond.