News
After 40 years, maiden passenger ferry journey from India to KKS
View(s):By S. Rubatheesan
A ferry carrying 50 Indian passengers from Nagapattinam in Tamil Nadu reached Kankesanthurai (KKS) yesterday, marking the resumption of Indo-Lanka sea connectivity across the Palk Strait after four decades
The ferry, Cheriyapani, reached the northern KKS harbour around 12.15 p.m. yesterday after a journey of more than three hours from Nagapattinam. The passenger ferry, which is expected to operate daily, headed back to Nagapattinam at 2 p.m.
Ports, Shipping and Aviation Minister Nimal Siripala de Silva and Fisheries Minister Douglas Devananda welcomed the Indian passengers to Sri Lanka.
Historic moment: An important milestone in connectivity between the peoples of India and Sri Lanka. Fifty Indian passengers made the maiden voyage in the first ferry service after 40 years. Pic by N. Lohathayalan
Addressing the event organised in KKS to welcome the vessel, Minister de Silva expressed hope that more ferry operators would come forward to carry passengers between the two countries on a daily basis.
He said that his Ministry had allocated Rs 600 million to repair and renovate the Thalaimannar pier to resume the ferry service to Rameswaram.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in a video message said the launch of a ferry service between Nagapattinam and Kankesanturai was an important milestone in strengthening relations between the two countries. “We are embarking on a new chapter in the diplomatic and economic relations between India and Sri Lanka.”
A special promotional fare of INR 2800 was introduced by the Nagapattinam Shipping Harbour Department for the inaugural trip. A regular ticket will be INR 7,760 with the inclusion of taxes.
For Sri Lankan travellers, a one-way ticket will be Rs 27,000 while a ticket both ways will be Rs 53,500.
A passenger will be allowed to carry 50 kilos of cargo.
The service is run by the Shipping Corporation of India with its local agent, Asha Agencies Ltd of the Pership Group.
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