The Kerala government has shelved the proposed Valiyathura Maritime Hub project following the dissolution of the Kerala Maritime Board (KMB) in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, bringing the planned redevelopment of the coastal area to a halt. 

The project had progressed significantly under the KMB, which was seeking private-sector participation to redevelop approximately 4.5 acres of underutilised port land at Valiyathura. The proposed development aimed to restore the historic pier while creating an integrated maritime heritage and tourism precinct comprising a fish landing centre, convention facilities, hospitality amenities, museums and other maritime-themed attractions. The project was planned as a PPP, under which private investors would be responsible for redeveloping the site and restoring the pier through a long-term concession arrangement. Built in 1956, the 214-metre Valiyathura pier has sustained significant structural deterioration over the years due to coastal erosion, rough sea conditions and prolonged neglect. In 2024, repeated wave impact caused the already-damaged sea bridge to collapse at its centre. The pier has consequently remained inaccessible to the public for several years. 

The 214-metre Valiyathura pier, built in 1956, has sustained extensive structural deterioration over the years. To ensure that the redevelopment would not disrupt traditional fishing activities or coastal access, the KMB had proposed consultations with fishermen, church representatives and local stakeholders. The Board subsequently invited Expressions of Interest (EoIs) from private developers, but received only one submission, which was rejected as it did not align with the Board’s proposed development vision. KMB had intended to relaunch the procurement process through a Request for Proposal (RFP) after the Model Code of Conduct was lifted. The project’s future was also expected to hinge on the policy priorities of the incoming government.

The latest setback occurred in July when the Kerala government decided to dissolve the KMB, citing financial and administrative shortcomings. The move has placed several projects being pursued by the Board, including the Valiyathura redevelopment, under review. Attempts by the state government to secure funding for the pier restoration under the Union government’s Sagarmala programme also failed to materialise.