The modern port of Cochin was developed during the period 1920 to 1940. Sir. Robert Bristow was the visionary harbour engineering chief, responsible for the modernisation of Cochin Port.

He was responsible for the daring engineering feat of cutting the rock like barriers of sand and silt at the mouth of harbour to open up the present Port at the Willingdon Island.

The Cochin Port was declared a Major Port on the first of August, 1936.

Simultaneously, the harbour administration was taken over by the Government of India and Sir. Robert Bristow was appointed as the first administrative officer of the Port.

Cochin Port was declared as Major Port under Major Port Trusts Act in Feb, 1964.
The administration is now vested with the board of trustees appointed by Government of India.