The largest container vessel in the world, the MSC IRINA, berthed at Thiruvananthapuram’s Vizhinjam International Seaport on Monday. The port’s official entry process marks a milestone moment for India’s maritime aspirations.
A Record-Breaking Vessel with Global Reach
Worldwide recognized as having a massive TEU (Twenty-foot Equivalent Unit) capacity, MSC IRINA is the biggest container ship in the world ever built. Measuring 399.9 metres by 61.3 metres in length and width respectively, and boasting a capacity of 24,346 TEUs, the vessel is almost four times the size of a FIFA-regulated football field.
What is special about the ship is that it is meant to carry enormous amounts of cargo between Europe and Asia. It is significant in simplifying logistics and trade channels.
Boost to Newly Opened Vizhinjam Port
The docking of MSC IRINA is a historic moment for the newly opened Vizhinjam port. Prime Minister Narendra Modi commissioned the port on May 2, and the docking of MSC IRINA shortly afterwards lends weight to the launch of the port.
This achievement is a testament to Vizhinjam’s preparedness and infrastructure to accommodate Ultra-Large Container Vessels (ULCVs), elevating it as a new hub for international shipping.
Testament to Port’s Increasing Reputation
The Adani Group-run port has also welcomed other mega ships such as MSC Turkiye and MSC Michel Cappellini recently. These developments reinforce its status as an important figure among maritime trade routes for the Indian Ocean region.
Engineering Excellence and Sustainability
Launched in March 2023 and starting operations in April, MSC IRINA is flagged in Liberia. Designed to stack containers 26 high, the ship has unparalleled cargo efficiency.
It beats the former record-breaker, OOCL Spain, by 150 TEUs. Aside from its enormity, MSC IRINA also features energy-saving technologies, cutting carbon emissions by as much as 4 per cent, making maritime operations cleaner.
A Strategic Move in International Shipping
The berthing of MSC IRINA highlights Vizhinjam’s strategic position in international maritime logistics. It also marks a new standard in sustainable shipping operations, combining gigantic size with energy-efficient technology.
Overall, this development affirms India’s increasing presence in international trade and, moreover, reiterates the value of Vizhinjam International Seaport as an international shipping hub.
