After a gap of nearly four decades, a high-speed passenger ferry service was inaugurated today (14), marking a new era of connectivity between Nagapattinam on the east coast of Tamil Nadu and Kankasanthure in Sri Lanka’s northern province.
The inauguration ceremony was attended by Union Minister for Ports, Shipping, and Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal, and Tamil Nadu Minister for Public Works, Highways, and Minor Ports, E.V. Velu. They jointly hoisted the flag, symbolizing the launch of the Sri Lanka-India cruise service, at Nagapattinam port.
The voyage commenced with the High-Speed Craft (HSC) Cheriyapani under the command of Captain Biju George. It set sail from Nagapattinam port at approximately 8:15 am, carrying 50 passengers and a crew of 12.
Both the Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe conveyed their appreciation through video messages.
Prime Minister Modi emphasized that the ferry service signifies a new chapter in diplomatic and economic relations between India and Sri Lanka. He believes it will not only facilitate cultural and commercial ties but also strengthen the civilizational bonds that exist between the two countries.
Prime Minister Modi further announced India’s intention to reestablish the ferry service between Rameswaram and Thalaimannar.
