Jankar service between Beypore and Chaliyam in Keralam’s Kozhikode suspended following safety concerns

The Beypore-Chaliyam ferry (jankar) service has been suspended without prior notice, causing inconvenience to commuters, students, workers, and those transporting fish between the two harbours.

The service was stopped following an order from the Beypore port officer after a social worker complained to the District Collector that the existing ferry was old and was being operated after temporary repairs, posing a potential safety risk. The Collector subsequently directed the authorities to inquire into the complaint and submit a report.

The ferry, operated by Kadalundi grama panchayat and contracted to Cochin Ferry Service, provides a vital link between Beypore and Chaliyam. Its suspension has forced commuters to take a longer road route through Cheruvannur, Feroke, and Ramanattukara. The additional traffic has reportedly aggravated congestion in the area, particularly amid the ongoing flyover construction at Cheruvannur.

The disruption has also affected the movement of fish to Beypore and Chaliyam fish landing centres. Several passengers and vehicles reportedly reached the ferry points without being aware of the suspension of the service and had to return.

The Kadalundi grama panchayat authorities said steps would be taken to introduce a new ferry. A roll-on roll-off (ro-ro) ferry brought by the contractor is proposed to be used for the service, they said.

However, residents who depended on jankar services said the existing jetties are reportedly unsuitable for the ro-ro ferry. The jetties on both sides will have to be modified, while the problem of the ferry’s propeller fan hitting the riverbed because of inadequate depth will also have to be addressed, they pointed out.

Meanwhile, port sources said the service would be resumed after resolving technical issues and obtaining the necessary approval from authorities.