Ferry Service Restarted: A New Chapter in India-Sri Lanka Relations
Discover the renaissance of the ferry service between Nagapattinam, India, and Kankesanthurai, Sri Lanka, after 40 years. Learn about the inauguration, the vessel, and its significance in diplomatic ties. Read on for a comprehensive guide on this historic event.
Introduction:
In a momentous occasion on October 14, 2023, India and Sri Lanka marked the revival of the ferry service between Nagapattinam and Kankesanthurai after a hiatus of four decades. This article unfolds the details of this significant event, highlighting key aspects such as the inauguration ceremony, the vessel, and the broader implications on diplomatic and economic relations between the two nations.
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| Ferry service started again after 40 years between Nagapattinam of India and Kankesanthurai of Sri Lanka |
Inauguration Ceremony: A Virtual Affair
The ferry service, suspended in the 1980s due to safety concerns, was reinstated with a virtual flag-off ceremony. Foreign Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar, Union Minister Sarvananda Sonowal, Minister of State E.V. Velu, and Raghupathi virtually inaugurated the ferry service, symbolizing a historic diplomatic gesture.
The Vessel: High-Speed Craft Cheriyapani
Under the command of Captain Biju George, the High-Speed Craft (HSC) Cheriyapani embarked on its journey from Nagapattinam port. With 50 passengers and 12 crew members, this vessel offers a three-hour voyage to reach Kankesanthurai port in Sri Lanka.
Diplomatic and Economic Impact
Describing the ferry service as a new chapter in diplomatic and economic relations, Prime Minister Modi emphasized its role in strengthening cultural, commercial, and civilizational ties between India and Sri Lanka. The launch reflects India's commitment to its 'Neighbourhood First' policy.
Expansion of Connectivity: Air and Sea
In 2015, direct air service between Delhi and Colombo commenced, marking a milestone in connectivity. Furthermore, the initiation of direct flights from Sri Lanka to Kushinagar in Uttar Pradesh showcased the growing ties. Anticipated is the launch of another ferry service between Talaimannar in Sri Lanka and Rameshwaram in India, further enhancing connectivity.
Past Challenges: Tuticorin and Colombo
Efforts in 2011 to revive ferry services between Tuticorin and Colombo faced challenges, leading to abandonment due to commercial feasibility concerns and extended journey times.
Nagapattinam Port: Infrastructure Upgrade
Nagapattinam Port, a non-major port under the Tamil Nadu Maritime Board, stands at the mouth of the Kaduvaiyar River on the Bay of Bengal coast. To facilitate the revived ferry service, the Union Ministry of External Affairs sanctioned ₹8 crore for infrastructure upgrades.
FAQs:
Q: Why was the ferry service between Nagapattinam and Kankesanthurai suspended in the 1980s? A: The service was halted in the 1980s due to safety concerns, leading to a temporary suspension.
Q: How long does the High-Speed Craft Cheriyapani take to reach Kankesanthurai from Nagapattinam? A: The journey on HSC Cheriyapani takes approximately three hours to reach Kankesanthurai port in Sri Lanka.
Q: What is the significance of restarting the ferry service in diplomatic relations? A: The revival of the ferry service is considered a new chapter in diplomatic relations, fostering cultural, commercial, and civilizational ties between India and Sri Lanka.
Q: Are there plans for additional ferry services between Sri Lanka and India? A: Yes, plans include the launch of a ferry service between Talaimannar in Sri Lanka and Rameshwaram in India, further enhancing connectivity.
Q: Why were efforts to revive ferry services between Tuticorin and Colombo abandoned in 2011? A: The revival attempts faced challenges related to commercial feasibility and long journey times, leading to abandonment.
Q: What infrastructure upgrades were sanctioned for Nagapattinam Port? A: The Union Ministry of External Affairs sanctioned ₹8 crore for upgrading infrastructure at Nagapattinam Port.
Conclusion:
The revival of the ferry service between Nagapattinam and Kankesanthurai signifies a crucial milestone in India-Sri Lanka relations. As connectivity expands through air and sea, the positive impact on diplomatic ties and cultural exchange is evident. The upgraded infrastructure at Nagapattinam Port further cements the commitment to fostering stronger relations between the two nations.
