The Sri Lankan government recently initiated a passenger ferry service project between the Sri Lankan port of Kankasanthurai and the Indian port of Pondicherry. This new ferry service seeks to provide a more cost-effective and convenient mode of transportation between these two locations. In support of this initiative, the Sri Lanka Navy has begun expanding the Kankasanthurai harbour’s facilities to accommodate more traffic and improve infrastructure. This article will provide information on the new ferry service between Kankasanthurai and Pondicherry, including its purpose, benefits, and operational details.
Why was the new ferry service launched?
The new ferry service between Kankasanthurai and Pondicherry was launched to provide a more affordable and convenient mode of transportation for people travelling between Sri Lanka and India. The current transportation methods, such as air and sea travel, can be expensive and time-consuming. The new ferry service aims to provide a cheaper and more efficient option for people travelling between the two countries.
What is the Sri Lanka Navy’s role in the project?
The Sri Lanka Navy has actively supported the expansion of the Kankasanthurai harbour facility to accommodate the new ferry service. The Navy has provided a skilled workforce and technical expertise to construct a passenger terminal for immigration and customs clearance. The Sri Lanka Ports Authority provides the necessary materials for the construction work.
What are the benefits of the new ferry service?
The new ferry service will provide several benefits to passengers:
- It will be a cheaper mode of transportation compared to air and sea travel.
- It will save time as the journey time will be reduced significantly.
- It will provide a more comfortable and convenient mode of transportation for passengers, with the ability to carry more luggage and travel with family and friends.
What are the logistical details of the new ferry service?
A private company will operate the new ferry service, and passengers can expect to have different types of ferries available. The journey time will be approximately 3-4 hours, and the service will be available on certain days of the week. The passenger terminal at Kankasanthurai Harbour will have immigration and customs clearance facilities, and passengers must provide the necessary travel documents and undergo security checks.
How affordable is the new ferry service?
The new ferry service will be a cheaper mode of transportation compared to air travel. The exact pricing details have yet to be available, but it is expected to be affordable and within reach of the general public.
What are the different types of ferries that will be available?
There will be various types of ferries available for passengers to choose from. The Sri Lanka Navy has procured several passenger ferries that can accommodate different numbers of passengers, ranging from small to large vessels. These ferries are equipped with modern amenities to ensure passenger comfort and safety during the journey.
Passengers can choose from economy class or luxury class tickets depending on their budget and travel preferences. The Economy class tickets are affordable, making the ferry service accessible to more people. On the other hand, luxury-class tickets come with additional amenities and services such as comfortable seating, air-conditioning, and complimentary refreshments.
Whether you’re a budget traveller or someone who prefers a more luxurious experience, there’s a ferry option that will suit your needs.
What are the amenities on board?
The new ferry service between Kankasanthurai and Pondicherry will offer a range of amenities to ensure passenger comfort and convenience during the journey. The ferries will have modern facilities, including comfortable seating, air-conditioning, and toilets. Food and beverage services will also be available on board, with various options to suit different dietary requirements.
In addition, the ferries will have entertainment options such as TV screens and Wi-Fi connectivity, allowing passengers to stay connected and entertained during the journey.
What is the schedule for the new ferry service?
The schedule for the new ferry service between Kankasanthurai and Pondicherry has yet to be announced. However, it is expected that the ferry service will operate regularly, with multiple departures per week to cater to the needs of passengers.
The Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Aviation works closely with Sri Lanka Navy and other related agencies and service providers to finalize the ferry service schedule. Once the schedule is announced, passengers can book their tickets in advance through various channels, including online booking portals and authorized travel agents.
Passengers are advised to stay updated on the latest news and announcements regarding the ferry service schedule to plan their travel accordingly.
How can I book tickets for the new ferry service?
Passengers can book tickets for the new ferry service between Kankasanthurai and Pondicherry through various channels once the schedule is announced. However, one of the easiest ways to secure tickets is through online booking portals, which will provide a hassle-free booking experience to passengers.
In addition, authorized travel agents will also be able to book tickets for the ferry service on behalf of passengers. This option benefits those who prefer to book their tickets through a travel agent or cannot access online booking portals.
Passengers are advised to stay updated on the latest news and announcements regarding the ferry service schedule and ticket booking options. Once the ferry service is operational, booking details and procedures will be made available through various channels, including the official website of the Sri Lanka Navy and authorized ticket booking platforms.
Are there any restrictions or guidelines for passengers?
Yes, there may be certain restrictions or guidelines for passengers travelling on the new ferry service between Kankasanthurai and Pondicherry. These guidelines are implemented to ensure the safety and well-being of all passengers on board.
Some of the standard guidelines that may be enforced include:
- Security checks: Passengers may be required to pass security checks before boarding the ferry. This ensures that no prohibited items or substances are brought on board.
- Immigration and customs clearance: Passengers travelling between Sri Lanka and India may be required to undergo immigration and customs clearance at the passenger terminal before boarding the ferry.
- Luggage restrictions: There may be restrictions on the amount and type of luggage passengers can carry on board the ferry. Passengers are advised to check with the ferry service operator or authorized travel agent for details on luggage restrictions.
- Safety guidelines: Passengers will be expected to follow all safety guidelines and instructions from the ferry crew. This includes wearing life jackets and following emergency procedures in case of any untoward incidents.
- COVID-19 guidelines: Passengers may be required to follow specific COVID-19 guidelines and protocols, including wearing masks and maintaining social distancing on board the ferry.
Passengers are advised to stay updated on the latest guidelines and restrictions in place for the new ferry service and to adhere to them for a safe and comfortable journey.
What is the impact of the new ferry service on the local economy?
The new ferry service between Kankasanthurai and Pondicherry is expected to positively impact the local economy of both Sri Lanka and India. The ferry service will provide a more affordable and convenient mode of transportation for passengers travelling between the two countries, which will likely increase trade and tourism between the two nations.
The expansion of the Kankasanthurai harbour facility by the Sri Lanka Navy is also expected to create employment opportunities for residents, as well as generate revenue for the Sri Lankan economy.
In addition, the ferry service is expected to promote cultural exchange and strengthen the ties between Sri Lanka and India. It will allow people from both countries to interact and learn more about each other’s culture and way of life.
What are the environmental benefits of the new ferry service?
The new ferry service between Kankasanthurai and Pondicherry is expected to have several environmental benefits. The ferry service is considered a more eco-friendly mode of transportation than other forms, such as aeroplanes or cars, as it produces fewer carbon emissions and helps reduce traffic congestion.
Reducing traffic congestion is expected to result in improved air quality, which will positively impact the health and well-being of the local population. The ferry service is also likely to have a lower impact on the environment than other forms of transportation, as it does not require the construction of new infrastructure such as highways or airports.
In addition, the ferry service is expected to promote sustainable tourism by providing an alternative to air travel, a significant contributor to carbon emissions. By choosing the ferry service over air travel, tourists can reduce their carbon footprint and help to protect the environment.
What are the safety measures in place for the new ferry service?
The safety of passengers and crew is paramount for the new ferry service between Kankasanthurai and Pondicherry. As such, several safety measures have been implemented to ensure that the ferry service operates safely and securely.
Firstly, all ferry operators must comply with international safety standards and regulations set by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and the International Association of Classification Societies (IACS). This includes regular safety inspections and certifications of the vessel and its equipment.
Secondly, the ferry service has modern navigational aids, communication systems, and safety equipment such as life jackets, life rafts, and fire extinguishers. In addition, the ferry service has trained and certified crew members responsible for the safety of passengers and the vessel.
Thirdly, the ferry service has implemented strict COVID-19 protocols by guidelines set by the Sri Lankan and Indian governments. This includes mandatory mask-wearing, social distancing measures, and regular sanitization of the vessel and its facilities.
Lastly, the Sri Lanka Navy, responsible for the construction and operation of the passenger terminal, has deployed its personnel to ensure the safety and security of passengers and the terminal facility.
