5 more ports in Kerala to be developed

Thiruvananthapuram: The Kerala Government has initiated steps to develop five more ports in the State, apart from the international container trans-shipment terminal at Vizhinjam.

The Government has already completed the process for identifying a consultant to prepare a project report as also to rope in a private partner for the integrated development of Thangassery port in Kollam.

The Minister for ports, Mr M. Vijayakumar, said that the existing wharf at the port would be extended to 200 metres. Besides, the draught would be deepened to 10 metres to facilitate large ships to call at the port.

The port has already been declared a commercial one by the Centre and sanctioned Rs 18.80 crore for its development. It has also been categorised as a customs port.