In a significant milestone for India's maritime trade, roadway cargo traffic from the Vizhinjam International Seaport is set to begin in Jan. Officials close to the project confirmed to TOI that trial runs using 40-foot equivalent container trailers with dummy cargo have commenced to assess the feasibility of utilizing the existing road network. These trailers are being tested on an interim route, connecting the port site to NH 66 via a service road and vehicular underpass. Officials expect roadway traffic to be operational once the approach road construction is completed, which is slated for next month. Construction activities are progressing round-the-clock to meet this deadline. Vizhinjam port has generated significant interest from manufacturers and traders across India, especially after shipping giant MSC included it in its Jade and Dragon services. These services enable direct global trade with Europe and Southeast Asia, making Vizhinjam the only port in India offering such connectivity. "There is massive demand from manufacturers in Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, and Andhra Pradesh to export and import goods through Vizhinjam," said a top official from Vizhinjam International Seaport Limited (VISL). "The Adani Group and VISL are working closely to ensure the commencement of roadway cargo traffic by next month. Customs check posts and other facilities will also be operational by then," he added. However, while the beginning of roadway cargo traffic is a critical step, business communities have raised concerns that road connectivity alone may not be sufficient. They are urging the establishment of a temporary container rail terminal at Nemom or Balaramapuram to further streamline logistics. In response, the state govt has allocated Rs 206 crore to Southern Railway to establish a permanent container yard near Balaramapuram railway station. A final bidder for the consultant on port-led industrialization is expected to be selected by the first week of Jan. The Centre has also granted in-principle approval for a cloverleaf intersection design at Thalakode to connect Vizhinjam port with NH 66. Upcoming meetings with the Railways and the NHAI will focus on plans for the container rail terminal and other infrastructure.Earlier this month, the state govt, Adani Group, and NHAI held discussions to expedite road connectivity projects and meet the Jan deadline.