In a historic milestone for India’s maritime trade, the MSC IRINA, the world’s largest container ship, has docked at the Vizhinjam International Seaport, operated by Adani Ports and SEZ Ltd. The vessel, which boasts an impressive capacity of 24,346 TEUs, marks a significant leap in global shipping and logistics efficiency.
1. MSC IRINA’s Monumental Arrival
-
The 399.9-meter-long and 61.3-meter-wide vessel is four times longer than a FIFA-designated football field.
-
Designed for large-scale container transportation between Asia and Europe, MSC IRINA enhances trade routes and supply chain efficiency.
-
The ship will remain berthed at Vizhinjam until June 10, showcasing the port’s ability to handle Ultra-Large Container Vessels (ULCVs)
2. Vizhinjam’s Growing Global Presence
-
The Vizhinjam International Seaport, inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on May 2, is emerging as a key hub for maritime trade.
-
The port has recently welcomed other Icon-class vessels, including MSC Türkiye and MSC Michel Cappellini, reinforcing its strategic importance.
-
Since its trial operations in July 2024, Vizhinjam has handled 349 ships and 7.33 lakh containers, demonstrating its rapid expansion.
3. MSC IRINA’s Environmental Innovations
-
The vessel is equipped with energy-saving features, reducing carbon emissions by up to 4%, making it a benchmark for sustainable shipping.
-
It can stack containers up to 26 tiers high, maximizing cargo efficiency while maintaining eco-friendly operations.
4. Future Impact on India’s Trade & Logistics
The arrival of MSC IRINA signals India’s growing role in global shipping, strengthening trade connectivity with Europe and Asia.
The Vizhinjam port’s ability to handle ULCVs positions it as a game-changer in India’s maritime infrastructure.
Sources: MSN. Rediff, NewsX