One of the most significant coastal engineering projects in India is the Vizhinjam breakwater. It blends strength, creativity, and efficiency in its design to safeguard the harbor and surrounding fishing towns.
The Vizhinjam breakwater is designed to endure waves for more than a century. Constructed from robust granite, this enormous tower also provides a breathtaking aerial perspective. Its current length is 2,960 meters, and by 2028, another 920 meters will be added, making its total length 3,880 meters. Additionally, the berth’s length will be increased.
Strong waves make it challenging for vessels to access the fishing harbor at the harbor mouth during the monsoon season. There have been numerous incidents in the past, including boat capsizes. To shield fishing boats from tides, currents, waves, and storm surges, a breakwater was built near the coast.
The breakwater is the deepest in the nation, reaching a depth of 18 to 20 meters. It is 28 meters high, which is the same as a nine-story structure. The state government is providing all of the funding for the ₹1,387 crore development project. It is made to survive waves as high as 8 to 9 meters.
68 lakh metric tons of stone, or over 2,25,000 truckloads, are needed for construction. Thirty percent of this granite comes from Tamil Nadu, while sixty percent comes from quarries in Kerala.
May 2 is the date of the first commissioning phase. Then will come the second and fourth stages.
In addition to strengthening the coastline, the Vizhinjam breakwater represents Kerala’s dedication to infrastructure development and maritime safety. Vizhinjam is expected to become a significant port on the world nautical map as its building moves forward.