Ports leads Economic and various Development – Kerala is marked on the global business map.

While port-led growth can create job opportunities and stimulate local economies, it can also lead to displacement of communities and environmental degradation. Balancing economic development with social equity and environmental sustainability is crucial.

The Vizhinjam International Seaport Thiruvananthapuram - IN NYY 1 is India's first deep-water container transhipment port. Situated just 10 nautical miles from the international east-west shipping route, it boasts a natural depth of 20 meters and is a greenfield, all-weather, transhipmet port. Notably, it holds the distinction of being India's first automated port and is the only one in the country located adjacent to an international shipping route. The Vizhinjam International Seaport is a versatile facility capable of accommodating the largest cargo vessels in the world, including Ultra Large Container Ships (ULCS). Upon full completion, this seaport will be able to meet 75 percent of India's container transshipment demands. Kerala is historical place related to marine world.

Since the start of maritime trade, ports have played a central role in the economic and social development of countries. More than 80 percent of global merchandise trade (by volume) is transported via sea routes. A considerable and increasing proportion of this volume, accounting for about 35 percent of total volumes and over 60 percent of commercial value, is carried in containers. Container ports are essential nodes in global supply chains and are crucial to the growth strategies of many emerging economies.

The development of high-quality port infrastructure, operated efficiently, has often been a prerequisite for successful growth strategies, particularly those driven by exports. When done correctly, it fosters the necessary confidence to attract investment in production and distribution systems, supporting the growth of manufacturing and logistics, creating employment, and increasing income levels.

Navigating the Future: the Importance of Port Development in International Shipping.

Port expansions play a crucial role in enhancing a region's economic growth, trade efficiency, and connectivity. Beyond this, a new port infrastructure can pave the way for implementing new equipment, and technology, and ultimately helps ensure further or enhanced connectivity.

Unveiling the Vital Role of Ports in Global Prosperity

Acting as global trade gateways Ports serve as the primary entry and exit points for international trade and act as key connection points for regions with diverse economies and markets.

Strategic trade routes

The strategic positioning of many ports along major international trade routes makes them essential hubs for transshipment.

Intermodal connectivity

Advanced port infrastructure supports intermodal transportation and means cargo can seamlessly transition between ships, trucks, trains, and airplanes, enhancing supply chain efficiency.

Large scale distribution centres

Goods that come into ports are often sorted, consolidated, and redistributed to local and regional markets.

Efficient cargo handling

Ports are equipped with specialised equipment and technologies for efficient cargo handling, storage, and distribution. These resources streamline the loading and unloading of goods, reducing transit times and costs.

 Access to specialised services

Across the globe, some ports specialise in handling specific types of cargo, such as bulk commodities, containerised goods, or perishable items. This type of value-added service ensures that specific industry needs can be met.

 Supporting economic growth and investment

Ports contribute significantly to national and regional economies by generating employment, attracting business investments, and fostering industrial growth. They create jobs not only within the port facilities but also in related industries like logistics, transportation, and manufacturing. Ports' capabilities often influence foreign direct investment decisions. Countries with well-developed and efficient ports are often more attractive to foreign investors looking to establish or expand their operations.

Fostering trade relationships

Ports become points of interaction and exchange for cultures, technologies, and ideas, leading to increased international cooperation and improved trade relationships.

Global competitiveness

Efficient ports contribute to lower transportation costs, reduced lead times, and improved overall competitiveness in international markets.

The Power of Port Infrastructure Evolution

Port expansion is essential for accommodating growing trade, fostering economic prosperity, reducing logistical challenges, and ensuring that different businesses can remain competitive in the global market.

The Driving Forces Propelling Port Development

Port Expansion and the Economic Impacts

Port development can have significant economic benefits. Their ability to accommodate larger vessels, increase cargo handling capacities, and enhance trade efficiency has a significant impact on global trade networks and shipping routes in numerous ways:

Shipping route optimisation : Shipping lines often seek the most efficient routes to reduce costs and transit times. Expanded ports can be strategically located to offer better connectivity between different regions, causing shipping lines to adjust their routes accordingly.

Expanded Capacity for Mega-Ships : Port expansions often involve deepening berths and widening navigation channels to accommodate mega-container ships and other large vessels. This enables shipping lines to use these expanded ports as key hubs, influencing the routes they choose to take and driving more trade through certain regions.

New Transshipment Hubs : Ports that undergo development can become transshipment hubs. This can reshape shipping routes as vessels may now include additional stops at these hubs, optimising the distribution of goods across multiple regions.

Global Supply Chain Reconfiguration : Ports with expanded capacities can lead to reconfigurations in supply chains. Manufacturers and shippers may opt for different transportation routes, choosing the most efficient and cost-effective paths that involve the newly expanded ports.

Sustainability : Sustainability has become a fundamental aspect of modern port development, reflecting the need to protect the environment and support local communities. It is also a vital aspect in ensuring the long-term success of port operations in a rapidly changing world.

Kerala Marked as a major role in marine world:

The coastal length of Kerala is around 585 kms. There are 17 ports in our state which include 1 major port, 3 intermediate ports and 13 minor ports. The major port in Kerala is the Cochin port. All the other ports are under the control of the Kerala Government.

Cochin Shipyard Limited : Shipyard was incorporated in the year 1972 as a fully owned Government of India company. In the last three decades the company has emerged as a forerunner in the Indian Shipbuilding & Ship repair industry. This yard can build and repair the largest vessels in India.

Indian Naval Academy : Academy is the defence service training establishment for officer cadre of the Indian Naval Service and the Indian Coast Guard, located in Ezhimala, Kannur district, Kerala. Situated between Ezhimala hill and the Kavvayi backwaters, INA has a 7 kilometre beach front on the Laccadive Sea.

Passenger Ships and Cruises :  Passenger Ships and Cruises Connecting Kerala to the Middle East/GCC

Kochi Water Metro: Kochi became India's first city to have a Water Metro Project. Kerala has become India's first city to have a Water Metro Project after the launch of its first boat in December 2021, namely 'Muziris,' among the 23 battery-powered electric boats being manufactured by Cochin Shipyard Limited. E-Boats - 75+ , Routes – 15, Kilometres – 70+

Source : govt, pvt(MSC)