Willingdon Island is a man-made island located in the city of Kochi (Cochin) in the Indian state of Kerala. It is a significant part of the city’s history and serves as an important commercial and industrial hub.
History
Willingdon Island was created during the construction of the modern Port of Kochi in the early 20th century. It was named after Lord Willingdon, who served as the Viceroy of India from 1931 to 1936. The island was formed by merging several small islands, and extensive land reclamation was carried out to join them together.
Purpose and Development
The primary purpose of creating Willingdon Island was to establish a modern and well-equipped port facility for the city of Kochi. The port became operational in 1939 and has since played a crucial role in facilitating trade and commerce in the region. Today, it is one of the major ports in India.
The island also houses various government offices, hotels, commercial establishments, and residential areas. Due to its strategic location and easy access to transportation, it has become a prominent center for trade, shipping, and logistics activities in South India.
Transportation
Willingdon Island is well-connected by road, and it has a railway station as well. It is connected to the mainland of Kochi by the Venduruthy Bridge and the Goshree Bridges. The island also has a seaport, which is part of the Cochin Port Trust.
Tourism
Apart from its commercial importance, Willingdon Island also attracts tourists due to its scenic views and the presence of several upscale hotels and resorts. Tourists often visit the island for leisure activities, as well as to witness the bustling port activities.
Overall, Willingdon Island remains an integral part of Kochi’s economic landscape and contributes significantly to the city’s growth and development.
