In Kerala, the Vizhinjam Port in Thiruvananthapuram scripted history with the arrival of first container ship ‘San Fernando”. The landing of the ship is a significant milestone in the State’s ambitious economic infrastructure development initiative and fulfilment of a long waited wish. ‘San Fernando’ which set sail from Xiamen Port in China, was welcomed with a water salute this morning. The arrival of the ship marks the beginning of the trial operations at the port.

In the official welcome programme scheduled tomorrow morning, Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal will be the chief guest. Chief Minister, Pinarayi Vijayan along with State Ministers, dignitaries, officials, and representatives of the public will participate in the event. Thousands of people are expected to witness the historic event. The trial operation will continue for 2-3 months. In the upcoming days, the port will witness the arrival of large vessels, solidifying Kerala’s place on the global transshipment port map.