It has been reported that there has been a growing demand for the resumption of Thoothukudi-Colombo passenger ferry service which can boost trade relationships between India and Sri Lanka. Over a decade ago, the historic ferry ship named ‘Scotia Prince’ was launched in June 2011 at VOC Port, Thoothukudi. But for some reason the service was suspended after six months.
Keeping fingers crossed, JP Joe Villavarayar, president, Tuticorin Hub Port Development Council, said once the ferry service, if revived, will provide a boost for business and tourism. Two months ago, a delegation from the Sri Lanka Ports Authority came by ship to Thoothukudi and studied the conditions here. Moreover, the Ram Setu canal dredging proposal near Pamban Bridge by the Centre is awaiting a nod.
Once the project proposal is approved, the sea route to Kankesanthurai and Jaffna in Sri Lanka would be shortest from Rameswaram and Thoothukudi coast, Villavarayar said.
S Lassington Fernando, secretary, Tuticorin Coastal Mechanised Sail Vessel Owners Association, said the authorities must consider resuming the service, instead of opting for Nagapattinam-Kankesanthurai ferry service.
S Antony Michael Kishore, a shipping agent said, during the sea voyage to Colombo by the nine-deck ‘Scotia Prince’ ferry ship, a passenger was allowed to carry a hundred kg baggage from Thoothukudi and vice-versa. Mostly, garments including ‘lungis’ were carried as baggage to Colombo, and on return products including soap, tea, and spice products were carried.
A round trip on ferry from Colombo to Thoothukudi costs Rs.5000 as compared to the air fare which is around Rs.6000.
