The inauguration took place on June 16. The goal of strengthening passenger transport between the two South Asian countries was met. Minister de Silva: cement “long-standing ties” by focusing “on tourism.” The fundamental contribution of the Navy, which provided manpower and experience.
Colombo () – With the inauguration of a new route linking Sri Lanka with India, the Colombo government and the Navy of the Asian country have completed the construction of the passenger terminal in the port of Kankesanthurai. Maritime transport and connections between the two countries with ferries will be strengthened. When the expansion works of the facilities were completed, the Kankasanthurai port began operations on June 16 and was officially opened to the public. As the first ship, the port saw off the luxury liner MV Empress packed with passengers.
The inauguration ceremony was held under the patronage of the Minister of Ports, Navigation and Aviation Nimal Siripala de Silva. Also present were his colleague and Fisheries Minister Douglas Devananda and the Commander of the Navy in the North, Rear Admiral Aruna Tennekoon.
Minister Nimal Siripala de Silva delivered a speech at the ceremony, praising the contribution of the Sri Lankan navy for the speedy completion of the construction works, enabling the passenger boat service to be launched in record time. “The passenger ferry service project – he pointed out – is part of a broader effort to strengthen the long-standing ties between India and Sri Lanka, especially aimed at boosting tourism.” In this sense, the minister added, “the participation of the Navy has not only meant significant cost savings, but has also accelerated the delivery of the project with benefits for the general public.”
Led by Commander, Vice Admiral Priyantha Perera, the Sri Lankan Navy has played a key role in supporting the expansion of the Kankesanthurai port facilities. In fact, the agency has made its workforce and skills available, in response to a request from the Ministry of Ports, Navigation and Aviation.
The project began on February 1, and the Navy took over the construction of a passenger terminal for immigration, customs clearance and disembarkation of people who wish to use the passenger transport service in the future.
The Navy has also carried out restructuring work on the pier and the installation of various other structures on the site. The construction materials required for the project were provided by the Sri Lanka Ports Authority. As a first act, the port said goodbye to the passengers aboard the luxury cruise ship MV Empress, who set sail under the guidance of the captain and crew, happy to be part of a moment that for many represents a true “milestone” of national transport.
