According to Kerala Minister for Ports Ahammed Devarkovil, the Vizhinjam Port, managed by the Adani Group, is nearing completion and is expected to be commercially commissioned in May 2024. The construction work for the port is 90 per cent complete, and the first ship from China, carrying cranes for the port, will arrive at Vizhinjam in September as a special gift for the people of Kerala during the Onam festival.Devarkovil mentioned that the port will have an 800-meter berth, with 400 meters already finished. This berth size will allow large ships from around the world to dock comfortably. The construction of the breakwater structure, which is planned to be 3,100 meters long, is progressing well, with 2,350 meters completed thus far.To address the shortage of boulders for the breakwater structure, boulders have been sourced from Tamil Nadu, and seven quarries in Kerala have been granted permission to meet the requirements. Devarkovil personally met with the Tamil Nadu minister to ensure a steady supply of boulders. The boulders are currently being stored and will be deposited in the sea after the monsoon season.Regarding the construction of the compound wall, a matter raised by the Adani Group, the Minister stated that the relocation of the nearby church has been agreed upon in principle. The government is considering the demands put forward by the Adani Group, and they expect to resolve this issue soon.The government also has plans to develop its smaller ports, a total of 17, to facilitate cargo connectivity with Vizhinjam using smaller vessels. This initiative aims to reduce congestion and improve safety on the roads by diverting cargo transportation to the ports.The Vizhinjam port is being constructed under a public-private partnership model, with the Adani Group as the private partner. Once completed, it will become one of the largest ports in the world. The project faced delays due to issues related to land acquisition and was originally scheduled for commissioning in 2019. The port also faced opposition from local fishermen concerned about its potential impact on their livelihoods, leading to protests in the area.