India, Sri Lanka discuss new ferry route between Rameswaram, Talaimannar
COLOMBO – India and Sri Lanka are exploring the launch of a new ferry service between Rameswaram and Talaimannar, aimed at further strengthening maritime connectivity and people-to-people ties between the two neighbours.
The proposal was discussed during a bilateral meeting between India’s Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal, and Sri Lanka’s Minister of Ports and Civil Aviation, Anura Karunathilake, held on the sidelines of the India Maritime Week 2025 in Mumbai.
According to a statement posted on X by India’s Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, the discussions “focused on enhancing maritime connectivity through the ongoing India – Sri Lanka ferry service and exploring the possibility of launching a new route between Rameswaram and Talaimannar, further deepening regional cooperation and people-to-people connect.”
The new route, if approved, will complement the existing ferry service between Nagapattinam (Tamil Nadu) and Kankesanthurai (KKS), which resumed operations earlier this year after a gap of four decades.
Officials said the proposed Rameswaram – Talaimannar link could revive a historic route that once served as a vital transport corridor before being suspended due to security concerns during Sri Lanka’s civil conflict.
The meeting between Sonowal and Karunathilake was part of broader discussions under the theme ‘Uniting Ocean, One Mission’, which guides this year’s India Maritime Week – a major event organized by India’s Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, featuring participation from over 85 countries.
In his inaugural address at the event, Minister Sonowal underscored the growing importance of the maritime sector in India’s economic transformation.
“The maritime sector stands as one of the strongest pillars of Viksit Bharat (Developed India),” he said. “Under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, India is setting new benchmarks, from expanding cargo handling capacity to undertaking major legal reforms that streamline and strengthen the maritime framework.”
Sonowal added that India aims to become one of the world’s top five shipbuilding nations and highlighted the country’s expanding global partnerships in the Indo-Pacific region.
“The theme ‘Uniting Ocean, One Mission’ reflects not only our regional aspirations but also the spirit of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’ – the belief that the world is one family. In this spirit, we share knowledge, align our goals, and foster partnerships that benefit all,” he said.
The India Maritime Week 2025, which runs from October 27 to 31, brings together policymakers, industry leaders, and international stakeholders to discuss advancements in port infrastructure, green shipping, digital maritime solutions, and regional connectivity.
Officials from both India and Sri Lanka said the renewed focus on maritime collaboration will play a vital role in enhancing trade, tourism, and cultural exchange across the Palk Strait.
–ENCL
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