Feb 25, Colombo: The ferry service between India and Sri Lanka, that was suspended decades ago due to the terrorist activities in Sri Lanka, is to be resumed next week.
The Sri Lankan government says the ferry services between the Colombo harbour and the Indian port of Tuticorin is to begin with a voyage from India.
A privately-run ferry with a capacity of 500 passengers is scheduled to sail from the Tuticorin port on Monday, February 28.Sri Lanka Navy and Indian Navy are to provide security for the ferry service.
Indian authorities have installed an Electronic Access Control System and Closed Circuit Televisions (CCTVs) to monitor the Tuticorin Port.
Indian reports said personnel of bomb detection squad are also in place and two patrolling boats will be engaged at the sea round-the-clock to enhance security.
The ferry will be operated two times a week initially and the frequency would be increased later.
Read moreReportedly a big warehouse at Tuticorin port has been converted into a passenger terminal and passenger seating, baggage scanning and immigration counter facilities have been installed in this terminal.
Initially there will be two voyages a week and will be increased to three voyages subsequently.
The 152- nautical mile journey between Colombo and Tuticorin is expected to take 10-12 hours.
Another ferry service between Rameswaram and Thalaimannar is expected to commence soon once the requisite infrastructure is put in place on both sides. An Indian company, IRCON, has already commenced survey work for this purpose to restore the damaged pier in Thalaimannar
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