Thiruvananthapuram: A major step has been taken towards the construction of a new modern fishing harbour at Vizhinjam, addressing a long-standing demand of coastal residents and the fishing community in the region.
The Kerala government has granted in-principle administrative sanction for the first package of the proposed fishing harbour project. The decision has been issued by the State Fisheries and Ports Department through Government Order No. G.O.(Rt) No. 585/2026/F&P.
The project will be implemented through Adani Vizhinjam Port Private Limited (AVPPL) in accordance with the provisions of the concession agreement associated with the Vizhinjam International Seaport project.
The government action follows a recommendation from the Managing Director of Vizhinjam International Seaport Limited (VISL), with the stated objective of expediting the construction process and completing the project within the stipulated timeframe.
235-Metre Breakwater and 500-Metre L-Shaped Berth
The first phase of the new fishing harbour will include a 235-metre breakwater and a 500-metre L-shaped fishing berth.
The breakwater is designed to provide protection from rough seas and high waves, creating safer conditions for fishing boats entering and operating within the harbour.
The proposed 500-metre L-shaped berth will facilitate the berthing of traditional fishing boats as well as mechanised vessels and provide improved facilities for loading and unloading fish.
The package will also include supporting infrastructure such as dredging, lighting and road connectivity required for the functioning of the harbour.
CWPRS Study Led to Changes in the Project Design
Following the completion of the first-phase breakwater of the Vizhinjam International Seaport, concerns were raised regarding increased wave activity at the entrance of the existing fishing harbour.
The fishing community and the Harbour Engineering Department highlighted the issue, following which the Central Water and Power Research Station (CWPRS), Pune, conducted a detailed physical wave model study.
Based on the study, measures to improve tranquillity conditions inside the harbour and provide safer access for fishing vessels were considered necessary. The construction of a new fishing harbour was subsequently recommended.
As the proposed location, alignment, breakwater configuration and berth arrangements underwent significant changes, the government had earlier issued a Change of Scope notice to the Adani group in accordance with the provisions of the concession agreement.
Project to Come Under ‘Funded Works’
The new fishing harbour will be undertaken under the ‘Funded Works’ category specified in Article 16 of the concession agreement.
With the in-principle administrative sanction now in place, further procedures, including technical approvals and construction-related arrangements, can move forward.
Long-Standing Fishermen’s Demand
The development of a new fish landing centre and fishing harbour for coastal residents was part of the commitments associated with the first phase of the Vizhinjam port project.
The latest government order marks an important administrative step towards fulfilling that commitment and developing a dedicated modern fishing facility at Vizhinjam.
The proposed harbour is expected to benefit fishing communities in Vizhinjam, Adimalathura and Poovar by providing improved safety and supporting infrastructure for fishing operations.
The decision is being presented by government and political circles as a step towards fulfilling the assurances given to the fishing community. The project is also being highlighted in the context of the coastal development initiatives associated with the V.D. Satheesan-led government.
The next stages will involve technical approvals and other construction-related procedures before the physical construction of the new fishing harbour can begin.
