Kerala is doubling down on its maritime ambitions with a landmark ₹2,000 crore MoU pact signed today between Vizhinjam International Seaport Limited and three heavyweight central PSUs: IOCL, CONCOR, and CWC. Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan presided over the event at the assembly premises, highlighting the government’s commitment to balancing private efficiency with public control in port development.
The agreements target an integrated logistics ecosystem, embedding essential functions within reliable PSU structures. This approach safeguards against cargo handling concentration risks while delivering cost-effective solutions to importers and exporters.
Breaking down the investments: IOCL leads with ₹700 crore for advanced bunkering infrastructure, enabling Vizhinjam to emerge as a prime bunkering station in the Indian Ocean. This not only supports larger vessels but also generates supplementary income for the port.
CONCOR follows with ₹600 crore to establish rail-connected inland depots and container freight stations, streamlining logistics from Kerala’s coast to India’s interior. CWC rounds out the trio, deploying ₹700 crore across 50 acres for a state-of-the-art logistics park complete with cold chains and export facilities.
No strain on state finances, as confirmed by authorities, makes this a win-win proposition. The initiative strengthens Vizhinjam’s role in global supply chains, promising faster turnarounds, reduced costs, and heightened competitiveness. As Kerala builds this ecosystem, it signals to investors that the port is ready for prime time, potentially reshaping the state’s economic landscape for decades.