Site & Project Location

Three alternative locations for the new port at Vizhinjam have been evaluated in the studies as conducted by L&T Ramboll. The selected site reportedly has good access to deep water, providing a good location for a deep water port catering for ships requiring a large draft. These deep waters would require limited dredging, though the cost of breakwaters would be substantial. At present the site is not well connected to the hinterland, but upgrading of road and rail infrastructure is in progress.

Land Requirement

As per Techno commercial feasibility studies done by L&T- Ramboll and later by Royal Haskoning, the entire project is proposed to be constructed on reclaimed land and hence, acquisition of any private land is not envisaged for the project or the port. However, land acquisition is required to the extent of 120 Ha for external facilities and the same is under progress. Land acquisition is the responsibility of GoK. However, the same has been entrusted to VISL that is coordinating for the same on behalf of the government. The R& R policy on account of the project affected persons and compensation thereof have been approved by the GoK.

Design Details

As mentioned earlier, the port is proposed to be developed in 3 phases and is designed to cater for transshipment of containers, as this has been identified as the cargo with the highest potential. However enough flexibility is built in to allow for other types of cargo such as Multi-Purpose, Break Bulk, and even liquid bulk. The largest container vessel in the market with a capacity of 12,500 TEU (E-class) is taken as the design vessel for this port. While these vessels are expected to call at Vizhinjam during phase 2 of the operation, the initial dredging depth during phase 1 allows for 9,000 TEU vessels.

Utilities

A 220 kV supply is being arranged with KSEB for providing the requisite power for the project. Agreement has been drawn up with the Kerala Water Authority and final discussions are taking place for finalisation of the agreements for supply of water. The arrangements would be in place during construction period of phase I itself.

Manpower

Since the project is proposed to be executed on EPC basis, the manpower required by VISL would be towards planning and monitoring. The company proposes to have a team with technically qualified members for the project comprising the CEO and secretaries, assisted by personnel in the administration and finance, commercial, planning & development and engineering divisions.

Operations and Maintenance

The Operations and Maintenance (O&M) of the basic civil infrastructure is proposed to be carried out by VISL. The company would ensure to have an O&M team well before the commencement of the project operations.