Nagai-Sri Lanka Passenger Ferry Service Canceled After Only One Day
Nagai-Sri Lanka passenger ferry service started on Saturday, 40 years after it was last operated. However, the service has been abruptly canceled today, just one day after its launch.
The passenger ship, which used to operate between Nagai port in India and Sri Lanka, was discontinued due to a fire accident four decades ago. However, the central government recently announced the revival of the ferry service, much to the delight of travelers.
In preparation for the restart of the service, reconstruction works were carried out at Nagai Port by the Tamil Nadu Government, with a fund of Rs.3 crore allocated by the Central Government. The ship named Cheryabani was brought from Kochi to Naga for this purpose, and trial runs were successfully conducted on October 8th and 9th.
India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the passenger ferry service through a video presentation on Saturday. Minister A.V. Velu was entrusted with the responsibility of overseeing the operations of the ferry service. He proposed a fare of 50 percent of the original amount, urging the central government to subsidize the remaining 50 percent for the convenience of the passengers.
Unfortunately, the eagerly awaited service has hit a roadblock as it has been canceled today (October 15) due to insufficient bookings. The lack of passengers has forced the authorities to abort the operation temporarily.
Furthermore, it has been announced that the ship traveling from Nagai port to Kangesan sector will only be operational on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays.
Travelers who were hoping for a seamless connection between Nagai and Sri Lanka are now left disappointed with the sudden suspension. The service’s cancellation after just one day raises questions about the feasibility and demand for this particular route.
It remains to be seen how the government intends to address the issues and challenges in order to ensure the continued operation of the Nagai-Sri Lanka passenger ferry service. Will there be renewed efforts to promote the service, or will alternative solutions be explored? Travelers eagerly await updates and clear communication from the authorities regarding the future of this long-awaited ferry service.
In other news, residents of 16 districts in India, including Chennai, have been alerted to the possibility of rain in the next two hours.