The Vizhinjam port project is set to become the biggest
transhipment container terminal in the country, expanding its berthing capacity
for vessels up to 18,020 TEU (twenty foot equivalent container units). This
would mean the port, once it becomes operational, will be able to handle berth
requirements of some of the world's largest vessels, giving it an edge over
ports like Colombo and Dubai.
These are some of the highlights of the
125-page master plan for Vizhinjam port that got the approval of the director
board of Vizhinjam International Seaport Limited last week.
The other
proposals include an exclusive 250 meter-long oil bunking facility, where long
haul vessels travelling along the east-west sea route can refuel, and an
850-meter modern fishing harbour twice the size of the existing one.
A copy
of the master plan has been given to International Finance Corporation, which is
doing the Environment Impact Assessment (EIA) study. "Once the Detailed Project
Report (DPR) is completed, the EIA report along with master plan and DPR will be
submitted to the state pollution control board for public hearing. The final
report will be then submitted to the union ministry of environment and forest
for clearance,'' an official said.
Vizhinjam is touted as the first green
port in the country introducing several parameters to reduce carbon footprints.
It will have a quay length of 2,000 meters to be constructed in three phases.
The terminal superstructure will be built by a private operator who will also
operate and maintain it for 30 years.
The Rs 4,010 crore port will have
dedicated rail and road connectivity to transport goods and the master plan,
designed by Aecom constulant in consultation with port authorities, has included
a modern fishing harbour with amenities like berthing facilities for fishing
boats and hygienic auction hall.
Source: TNN
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