NAGAPATTINAM
The resumption of the Subham ferry service between Nagapattinam in Tamil Nadu and Kankesanthurai (KKS) in Northern Sri Lanka, originally scheduled for the first week of December, has been postponed due to inclement weather and cyclone-induced damage at the Sri Lankan port.
The international passenger ferry service, which had its last run on October 25 this year, was temporarily suspended due to the northeast monsoon. However, the subsequent impact of Cyclone Ditwah has significantly affected port infrastructure at KKS. Restoration work by the Sri Lankan authorities is underway and is expected to be completed by the end of this month.
Sources from Subham Shipping say that while they are optimistic about resuming operations soon, they are awaiting both favourable sea conditions and official clearance before announcing a new date. “The safety of passengers and the readiness of the port are our primary concerns,” an official said.
In addition to passenger services, a cargo clearance of around 1,000 tonnes between Nagapattinam and KKS is also under consideration, pending weather improvements, said the sources.
Meteorological agencies have forecast continued heavy rainfall across parts of Sri Lanka, further delaying port activity and sea transit.
The Subham ferry, inaugurated in 2023 after a four-decade hiatus, has played a crucial role in facilitating people-to-people and trade links between Tamil Nadu and the Northern Province of Sri Lanka. The postponement of its restart is expected to impact pilgrims, tourists, and small-scale traders on both sides.
Published – December 07, 2025 05:50 pm IST
