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The construction of a new fishing harbour at Vizhinjam is scheduled to begin in November, running alongside the ongoing expansion of Vizhinjam International Seaport. The total project cost is INR 271 crore and is divided into two packages. Package 1, handled by Adani Vizhinjam Port Private Ltd (AVPPL), includes a 235-meter breakwater, a 500-meter fishery berth, and other related facilities. Package 2, managed by the Harbour Engineering Department (HED), involves a 250-meter angled seaward breakwater. The project addresses the concerns of local fishermen and will provide modern amenities for traditional fishing vessels.
The construction of Vizhinjam's new fishing harbour is set to commence in November, alongside the second and third phases of capacity expansion at Vizhinjam International Seaport. Officials confirmed that the total investment for the fishing harbour project is INR 271 crore, and it has been structured into two separate packages to streamline execution. Advertisement
Package 1, which is managed by Adani Vizhinjam Port Private Ltd (AVPPL), will cover the core harbour works. This includes the construction of a 235-meter breakwater, a 500-meter fishery berth, and ancillary infrastructure such as a jetty, engine and net-locker rooms, an auction hall, administrative offices, toilet blocks, and a canteen. The original plan included facilities for trawling vessels, but local fishermen expressed a preference to continue using traditional boats. The design was accordingly adjusted to meet their requirements.
Package 2, overseen by the Harbour Engineering Department (HED) as a deposit work, focuses on building a 250-meter seaward breakwater at a 45-degree angle. The estimated cost for this package is INR 125 crore, and the tender process is expected to be completed shortly. This breakwater will complement the port expansion and ensure that both projects progress simultaneously.
Earlier this week, a stakeholders' meeting was held, led by Fisheries Minister Saji Cherian and Ports Minister V N Vasavan, with church representatives and fishing community leaders in attendance. Discussions addressed concerns that the harbour construction could affect fishermen's traditional access to fishing zones. Officials stated that all apprehensions of the local community have been duly considered and resolved, ensuring the project balances infrastructure development with the livelihoods of traditional fishermen.
Meanwhile, the Vizhinjam International Seaport expansion is advancing as planned. Vizhinjam International Seaport Limited (VISL) recently signed an agreement with Engineers India Limited (EIL) to act as an independent agency for design review and construction oversight. The second and third phases of port expansion are expected to begin next month, with the projected completion date set for December 2028.
The fishing harbour project also builds on earlier developments. In November 2024, Adani Ports and the state government signed a supplementary concession agreement, accelerating the port expansion timeline. Adani agreed to resolve arbitration proceedings over earlier delays, while the state extended the port concession until 2060.
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