News Brief
Amid Renewed Interest After PM Modi's Visit To Lakshadweep, Karnataka Likely To Start Passenger Ferry Services To The UT
Nayan Dwivedi
Feb 20, 2024, 01:14 PM | Updated 01:15 PM IST
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In a latest development, Karnataka is planning to launch a passenger ferry service connecting the state with the Lakshadweep Islands.
The move aims to streamline travel options for tourists, offering a convenient sea route alternative to the conventional journey via Kochi.
Previously, the Lakshadweep Administration operated a passenger ship from Mangalore Old Port to Kadmat Island, but the service was discontinued, leaving travelers to traverse to Kochi for island access.
The renewed focus on Lakshadweep now entails the establishment of a dedicated jetty for Lakshadweep, along with cargo and cruise terminal facilities, at Mangalore Old Port.
Recently, Union Minister for Ports, Shipping, and Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal, affirmed the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between the Lakshadweep Administration and Karnataka Maritime Board for this project.
The proposed ferry service will cater primarily to the northern group of Lakshadweep islands, including Amini, Kadmat, Kiltan, Chetlat, and Bitra.
Travel enthusiasts and locals have welcomed this development, recognizing its potential to revolutionize tourism connectivity.
The renewed interest got boosted after visuals of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi soaking in the beaches of Lakshadweep and snorkelling amid its coral reefs sparked a spike in Google searches for the islands.
It's important to note that of Lakshadweep’s 36 coral islands and reefs, 10 are inhabited.
Amini, Kadamat, Bitra, Chetlat, Kiltan and Agatti islands are closer to Mangaluru. Andorth, Kavaratti and Kalpeni islands are closer to Kozhikode, and Minicoy is closer to Kochi in Kerala.
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Nayan Dwivedi is Staff Writer at Swarajya.
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