The Kerala government has approved ₹1.83 crore to engage a consultant for preparing a Detailed Project Report (DPR) on industrial development around the Vizhinjam International Seaport, marking a key step in advancing port-led industrialisation. The consultant, to be finalised by the end of August, will draft a strategic roadmap covering marine facilities, container yards, logistics clusters, and allied infrastructure. The study is expected to be completed within a year, though early submission will be accepted. A selection committee has completed technical and financial evaluations and will meet shortly to finalise the appointment.
To address land scarcity and escalating property prices, the Kerala Maritime Board has proposed transferring five acres near Harbour Road’s historic Inspection Bungalow to develop container yards, oil storage units, and warehouses under a PPP model, subject to cabinet approval. Vizhinjam International Seaport Ltd (VISL) has also been directed to earmark at least 200 acres for industrial clusters, including food processing and manufacturing.
Connectivity works are underway. A temporary access road linking the port to NH-66 at Thalakode is expected to be ready within a month. However, the permanent ₹360-crore cloverleaf interchange at Thalakode — requiring 30 acres of land — remains uncertain amid funding discussions between the state and NHAI.
On the rail front, tenders are likely to be floated soon for a proposed 9-km tunnel connecting the port with Southern Railway’s mainline at Balaramapuram, a project seen as crucial for seamless hinterland connectivity.
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