Valiathura Port
Valiathura’ was a major port of Thiruvananthpuram city, the capital of Kerala, India. It is one of the oldest ports in India. This was once the only port along the South Kerala coast. When Kochi became the prominent port in Kerala, Valiathura lost its significance as a major port. Now, Valiathura is considered as a fishing port. Once a bustling maritime hub, it is now primarily a site of cultural and historical interest.
It is located near Shankhumugham. It is a typical coastal region. The vegetation consists mainly of coconut trees. The land is higher in Valiathura, so calamities due to the monsoon tides are less compared to the other nearby coastal regions.
Valiathura is famous for its pier. The 60-year-old, 703-foot (214 m) pier and the godowns (warehouses) behind it are a far cry from the past, when up to 50 cargo ships used to call here at a time. Opened in 1956 by the advisor to the Rajapramukh Dr. P.S. Rau, it was the only port along the South Kerala coast.
Infrastructure
4 Godowns with capacity 3500 sq ft, 8280 sq ft, 4180 sq ft, and 3975 sq ft. The port is known for its pier, extending into the Arabian Sea, which facilitated cargo loading and unloading. Over time, the port’s infrastructure has deteriorated due to reduced commercial activity and coastal erosion.
Decline of Commercial Use
- With the emergence of modern ports like Kochi, Valiathura gradually lost its prominence as a trade hub.
- Today, it is not used for major shipping operations but remains significant for small-scale fishing and local community activities.
Fishing Hub
- Currently, Valiathura serves as a critical center for the local fishing community. Fishermen use the pier to launch boats and dry fish.
Tourism and Scenic Beauty
- The pier is a popular spot for tourists, offering breathtaking views of the Arabian Sea, particularly during sunrise and sunset.
The area around the port is a serene retreat for photography enthusiasts and beach lovers.
New Intiatives
The CPT launched E-Thuramukham, a comprehensive enterprise resource planning implementation programme, becoming the first Indian port to do so. The project is based on SAP platform and will be customized by Tata Consultancy Services.
Challenges
- Coastal Erosion: The region faces severe coastal erosion, threatening the remaining infrastructure of the port.
- Conservation Efforts: There have been calls to preserve and restore Valiathura’s historical and cultural significance.
Relevance Today
Although it has lost its significance as a commercial port, Valiathura remains a symbol of Kerala’s maritime history and a vibrant part of the local fishing economy. It holds potential for heritage tourism and community development.