Vizhinjam Port in Kerala marks a significant milestone with the arrival of MSC Michela, its 100th commercial vessel.
Vizhinjam International Port in Kerala achieved a significant milestone as it welcomed its 100th commercial vessel, MSC Michela. The vessel, built in 2016, boasts an impressive length of 299.87 meters and a capacity exceeding 9,400 TEUs. Currently sailing under the flag of Madeira, MSC Michela’s arrival highlights Vizhinjam Port’s rapid rise as a global transshipment hub.
Karan Adani, MD of Adani Ports and SEZ, the port operator, celebrated the milestone, stating on X: “The arrival of MSC Michela marks a new chapter in India’s journey toward becoming a global transshipment hub. With automated container handling, Vizhinjam Port showcases our commitment to state-of-the-art technology in ports and logistics.”
Commencing commercial operations in December 2023 following a four-month trial run, Vizhinjam Port represents the country’s first deep-water transshipment hub and stands as Kerala’s largest private sector investment. Operated under a public-private partnership (PPP) model by Vizhinjam International Seaport (VISL), the port has positioned itself as a critical player in India’s maritime infrastructure.
To bolster its operations, the port secured a ₹2,100 crore loan from NABARD with a 15-year tenure, including a two-year moratorium for principal repayment. For the fiscal year ending March 31, 2023, Vizhinjam Port reported ₹74 crore in income, supported by a grant from the Kerala government.
This milestone underscores Vizhinjam Port’s strategic role in advancing India’s global trade capabilities.
