Vallarpadam project kick-off in a week

The central government will clear the Vallarpadam container terminal project within a week, Kochi port sources said.

The documents are now with the shipping minister's office and the letter of indemnity (LOI) will be signed this week itself, it is expected. The work will commence within 70 days of the signing of the LOI, according to the tender conditions.

Meanwhile the total cargo handled at the Kochi port during the first quarter has increased by around three lakh tonne in the current fiscal.

The increase in crude oil imports is the main factor for the better performance. Crude oil imports increased by 1,62,000 tonne, while imports of other products, including spices and marine products, rose by 1,72,000 tonne.

But there is a negative trend in the passenger vessels sector, especially luxury liners.

According to sources, 12 ships are expected to berth in Kochi in the current fiscal. Already three liners have arrived in April and May. The authorities expect an improved situation on this front after monsoons.

A record 34 luxury liners had berthed at Kochi port in 2000-01. This dwindled to 34 in 2001-02 and to 11 in the following year. 18 liners berthed in Kochi in 2003-04.