The project is based on extensive techno-commercial studies and engineering investigations to ensure robust, safe, and optimized infrastructure development. The Technical Consultant M/s Howe Engineering Projects Pvt. Ltd. (Howe), have completed 22 detailed technical studies and given reports covering all required engineering analyses, design considerations and supporting studies necessary for project development.

After the Techno Economic Feasibility Report by the Technical Consultants in November 2019, MIPS Ltd engaged M/s Fugro Geotech (India) Pvt. Ltd. (Fugro), for conducting the geo-technical investigations. All key support studies and subsurface investigations, including detailed marine and land geotechnical investigations, were conducted by Fugro including field investigations, laboratory testing, and soil characterization. This high-quality geotechnical data generated by Fugro was the foundation for the detailed structural design and engineering of the breakwater and marine structures, ensuring reliability and constructability under site-specific conditions.

Using the geotechnical data/report, designs were prepared for the port and breakwaters. The breakwater design, including stone column foundation systems and structural aspects, was independently reviewed and technically vetted by the Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT-M). This expert review validated and reinforced the technical soundness of the breakwater engineering approach proposed in the Detailed Project Report (DPR).

The DPR addresses the major engineering components, incorporating internationally accepted design practices and site-specific considerations. These studies and expert reviews significantly reinforces the technical and commercial credibility of the Project. This will provide prospective bidders confidence in the engineering robustness and commercial readiness of the project.

The land requirements excluding road and rail connectivity, for the 3 phases are 30 ha, 39 ha and 64 ha respectively. About 60 ha of accreted land is already available at the port location. The GoK has approved the project site and its transfer to MIPS Ltd. is expected shortly on nominal lease basis.

The 42-month EIA study as per the Terms of Reference of State Environmental Impact Assessment Authority (SEIAA)’s ToR in March 2021 was submitted to Kerala State Pollution Control Board (KSPCB) in January 2025. The public hearing was held by the District Collector, Kannur on 10th March 2025 and its proceedings were submitted to the SEIAA by KSPCB.

To make the project in line with the Viability Gap Funding (VGF) Scheme of the Government of India for PPP and make it viable for investors, Kerala Government funding is needed for common infrastructure like breakwaters and land acquisition for the port road/highway. A Hybrid Annuity Model (HAM) with deferred payments in installments is proposed for the EPC contractors for the breakwater construction.

Two separate Expressions of Interest (EoIs), are immediately to be invited (i) for the selection of an EPC contractor for the construction of breakwaters under the Hybrid Annuity Mode (HAM) and (ii) for the selection of a Concessionaire for PPP. Funding from the Government of India for the Viability Gap Funding (VGF) will be pursued after getting the PPP bids.

For enhancing port-led manufacturing, export-import trade and economic development of the Malabar region (especially Kasargode, Kannur, Wayanad and Kozhikode Districts) master plans for industrial parks/SEZs are being designed by Tata Consulting Engineers, based on lands in possession or under acquisition, for port-based industries/ SEZs, Free-Trade Warehousing Zones, etc. in co-operation with other industrial development agencies like KINFRA. These will enhance the traffic and income of the port, making it viable and reducing the investment/grant of the Government, while creating economic development and jobs. The work for the development of SEZ/industrial parks will be carried out concurrently with the development of the port to ensure seamless integration, timely completion and attracting investment and financing, thereby generating long-term benefits for both Government and the region.