The passenger ferry service between Nagapattinam and Kankesanthurai in Sri Lanka resumed operations on Saturday after being suspended due to weather conditions. The ferry, which departed from Nagapattinam in the morning, completed its round trip, marking the official resumption of services.
A total of 83 passengers boarded the vessel from Nagapattinam in the morning while 85 passengers made the return journey from Kankesanthurai in the afternoon. Port authorities carried out security and immigration checks before allowing passengers to board. As part of the reopening, ferry operators welcomed travellers with floral greetings.
To encourage more passengers, the operator has revised ticket prices, setting the one-way fare at ₹4,250 and the round-trip fare at ₹8,500. Complimentary breakfast and lunch will be provided onboard. Passengers can carry up to 10 kg of luggage free of charge, with an additional fee of ₹50 per kg beyond the limit.
Subashree Sundararaj, Director of the ferry service operator, said that the initiative was aimed at strengthening India-Sri Lanka ties and enhance regional connectivity.
The service, which was initially launched in August 2024, had received a positive response from travellers on both sides of the Palk Strait. However, operations were temporarily halted because of adverse weather conditions and delays in obtaining technical clearances. With improved weather and necessary approvals now in place, the ferry service had been resumed now.
