(a) whether the newly introduced ferry service to Sri Lanka from Tuticorin Port in Tamil Nadu has
commercially benefited the Indian exchequer;
(b) if so, the details thereof and the estimated volume of additional trade likely to be generated
between the two countries;
(c) whether the Government has any plan to introduce more such service in the near future; and
(d) if so, the details thereof?
MINISTER OF THE STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF SHIPPING (SHRI G.K. VASAN)
(a): Yes, Madam.
(b): A sum of Rs. 7.20 crore has been collected by V.O. Chidambaranar Port Trust, Tuticorin as first year
licence fee from the operator of the ferry service between Tuticorin and Colombo. Vessel related charges
are also being collected from the operator. So far 1542 passengers have embarked and 1098 passengers have
disembarked. The volume of additional trade likely to be generated between the two countries cannot be
estimated now.
(c): Yes, Madam.
(d): The Government has decided to introduce ferry service between Rameswaram and Talaimannar and between
Cochin and Maldives.