DP World and Cochin Port Authority are set to sign a memorandum of understanding (MoU) for channel deepening and berth expansion at Vallarpadam’s international container transhipment terminal (ICTT), today.

Cochin Port plans to deepen its 12 km-long channel to 16 mtrs. to enhance its competitiveness, with an investment of Rs 600-700 crore. Additionally, Cochin Port has requested DP World to extend the berth by constructing a 350-mtrs. quay, costing around Rs 1,800 crore. This initiative aims to accommodate 16-mtrs. draft ships.

The move comes in response to the newly opened Vizhinjam Port, which imperils Vallarpadam's viability. While Cochin Port will handle maintenance dredging costs, it seeks Union government funding for the capital dredging of Rs 600-700 crore, with the aim of boosting the port’s capacity and competitiveness.