Army, Navy, IAF eye land near Vizhinjam

Thiruvananthapuram: In a development that underscores the strategic importance of the upcoming port infrastructure in the state capital, the three wings of India's armed forces, the Indian Army, Indian Air Force (IAF) and Indian Navy, have formally sought land near the Vizhinjam International Seaport to establish defence-related facilities. Officials clarified that the request is not linked to the Centre's proposed theatre commands, including the maritime theatre command planned for Thiruvananthapuram.According to sources in the state administration, preliminary discussions have taken place between senior defence officials and representatives of various state govt departments, including Vizhinjam International Seaport Limited (VISL), the special purpose vehicle responsible for the port's development. The proposal is currently under the consideration of the chief secretary's office and a high-level meeting is expected to be convened next month to examine the request. Officials from departments such as revenue are also likely to take part in the
Each of the three services has sought different extents of land based on operational requirements. The Navy has requested around 25 acres of land along with access to a dedicated berth within the port. The Navy is reportedly planning to set up residential quarters and operational infrastructure to strengthen its presence along the southern coastline. Given Vizhinjam's proximity to major international shipping lanes in the Arabian Sea, naval officials view the port as strategically significant for maritime security and surveillance operations.The IAF has sought nearly 100 acres to establish a logistics hub and certain defence units in the region. Sources indicated that Thiruvananthapuram's geographic location, almost aligned in latitude with Minicoy Island in Lakshadweep, is a key factor behind the request. The Air Force considers the southern tip of the peninsula advantageous for monitoring developments in the Indian Ocean Region and enabling rapid deployment during emergencies.Meanwhile, the Indian Army has requested about five acres to set up an amphibious training centre. Defence officials noted that such a facility near a deep-water port like Vizhinjam would enhance coastal training capabilities and improve joint operational preparedness with the Navy and Air Force.State govt sources confirmed that VISL has identified suitable land parcels near the port that could potentially be allocated for defence purposes. "Once the govt takes a final decision, these parcels may be handed over to the armed forces," said the source. The interest shown by all three services highlights Vizhinjam port's growing strategic relevance beyond commercial shipping.