Land Rush: Kerala Secures 3,000 Acres for Port-Led Growth

In a move to accelerate port-led industrialisation, the Kerala government has directed agencies to identify a minimum of 3,000 acres of land to support infrastructure development around the upcoming Vizhinjam International Seaport.

At a high-level meeting chaired by K M Abraham, Chief Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister, officials from Vizhinjam International Seaport Ltd (VISL) and the Industries Department were instructed to expedite land acquisition. So far, VISL has earmarked 500 acres and KINFRA 300 acres, with expansion efforts extending to Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, and Kochi.

"All officials were instructed to fast-track port-led industrialisation to ensure land availability. While there is no formal deadline, updates on identified parcels will be submitted to the government," a senior official noted.

To support planning, the government has sanctioned ₹1.83 crore for hiring a consultant to prepare a detailed project report (DPR) focused on marine infrastructure, logistics, and access connectivity.

In parallel, the ₹1,483 crore Vizhinjam–Balaramapuram rail tunnel project, spanning 10.7 km, is being advanced, with tenders expected to be floated this month. The tunnel aims to strengthen freight movement and improve last-mile port connectivity.

News by Rahul Yelligetti.