Sri Lanka – Commences a ferry service between Sri Lanka and India through Kankasanthure port

Introducing a new transportation route between Sri Lanka and India, Sri Lanka Navy has completed the construction of the passenger terminal at Kankesanthurai harbor making way for a passenger ferry service between India and Sri Lanka. Upon completion of its facility expansion, the Kankasanthurai harbour was declared open for general operations on the 16th of June 2023. As the first vessel, the port welcomed the luxury cruise MV Empress, which sailed with passengers.

The opening ceremony was held under the patronage of the Minister of Ports, Shipping and Aviation, Nimal Siripala de Silva, Minister of Fisheries, Douglas Devananda and with the attendance of Commander Northern Naval Area, Rear Admiral Aruna Tennekoon.

Speaking at the occasion, the Minister of Ports, Shipping, and Aviation heaped praise on the contribution of the Sri Lanka Navy, for the expeditious completion of construction work, making way for the commencement of the passenger ferry service in record time.

“The passenger ferry service project is part of a larger effort to strengthen longstanding ties between India and Sri Lanka, with a focus on improving tourism. In this effort, the Navy’s involvement not only resulted in significant cost saving but also expedited the delivery of anticipated project benefits to the public,” he said.

Following the directives of the Commander of the Navy, Vice Admiral Priyantha Perera, the Sri Lanka Navy played a pivotal role in supporting the expansion of the Kankesanthurai harbor facilities by enabling its manpower and expertise, in response to a request of the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Aviation, Sri Lanka navy reports.

Accordingly, the project got underway on 01st February 2023 and as part of the project, the Sri Lanka Navy undertook the construction of a passenger terminal for immigration and customs clearance of people who intend to use this passenger ferry service.

In addition, the Navy also carried out renovation work of the jetty and installation of several other facilities on the premises. Required construction materials for the project were provided by the Sri Lanka Ports Authority.

Fittingly, the port welcomed the luxury cruise MV Empress, sailed with passengers. The Captain of the ship and its crew also joined this milestone event.

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