LONDON: Ports Minister Ramachandran Kadannappally has said that Azhikkal port here will be developed into a major facility equipped for the operation of service of container vessels, as plans are afoot for the development of minor ports across the State. “Azhikkal port will occupy an important place on the ports map of the State,” the Minister said while addressing a meet-the-press programme here on Tuesday.
Efforts would be taken to increase the cargo movement from the port. Dredging work using cutter suction dredger would start soon to increase the depth of the port basin and the channel.
The depth of the basin would be increased from the present 3.5 metres to 5 metres, while that of the channel would be increased to seven metres. Increased depth was necessary for the operation of bigger vessels including container ships, he pointed out. He said connectivity to the port would also be developed. Coordination of various government departments would be ensured for exploring the development potential of Azhikkal port.
