Prime Minister Narendra Modi has lauded the resumption of ferry services between India and Sri Lanka as a significant milestone in strengthening bilateral relations. These services, disrupted for four decades due to the civil war in Sri Lanka, are now being restored, demonstrating a commitment to improving connectivity, trade, and cultural ties between the two nations.
The ferry service operates between Tamil Nadu's Nagapattinam and Kankesanthurai near Jaffna in the northern province of Sri Lanka, with the aim of reviving the ancient maritime link between India and Sri Lanka. The high-speed ferry, run by the Shipping Corporation of India (SCI), can accommodate 150 passengers and covers a distance of approximately 60 nautical miles in 3.5 hours, subject to sea conditions.
The inaugural journey of the vessel named Cheriyapani involved 50 passengers traveling to Sri Lanka. The passengers expressed their joy at being part of this historic voyage.
Prime Minister Modi emphasized that the ferry service would not only enhance connectivity but also strengthen trade and the deep-rooted bonds between the two countries. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar also noted the significance of this event, highlighting its role in fostering people-to-people contacts between India and Sri Lanka.
The resumption of the ferry service marks a new chapter in diplomatic and economic relations between the two nations. It is a testament to the shared history of culture, commerce, and civilization, with places like Nagapattinam known for their sea trade with Sri Lanka.
The historic connections between India and Sri Lanka are depicted in ancient Tamil literature and Sangam age texts that describe the movement of boats and ships between the two countries. These connections, Modi mentioned, come to life with the re-establishment of the ferry service.
The Prime Minister emphasized that India and Sri Lanka are embarking on a new chapter in diplomatic and economic relations, with a vision document recently adopted during President Ranil Wickremesinghe's visit. Connectivity plays a pivotal role in enhancing trade, tourism, and people-to-people ties while creating opportunities for the youth of both nations.
This initiative aims to revive historical maritime connections dating back to the early 1900s, with the Indo-Ceylon Express being the last such service, which ceased operations in 1982 due to the Sri Lankan civil war. To launch the service, the Indian government supported the Tamil Nadu Maritime Board in upgrading Nagapattinam port facilities. Similarly, the Sri Lankan government developed the necessary infrastructure at the Kankesanthurai port.
This initiative aligns with India's priority of enhancing connectivity with neighboring countries and the broader Indian Ocean Region. The direct passenger ferry between India and Sri Lanka is expected to provide an efficient and cost-effective means of travel, boost tourism and trade links, and strengthen people-to-people ties.
The event was jointly flagged off by the Minister of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal, and External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar. Both nations are committed to expanding ferry services between other ports, including the traditional route between Rameswaram and Talaimannar.
In sum, the resumption of ferry services between India and Sri Lanka holds immense significance for diplomatic, economic, and people-to-people relations, rekindling historical maritime connections and fostering closer ties between the two nations.
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