The High Commission of India in the Maldives has revealed that the ferry service between Maldives and India will kick off on Monday.
Speaking to RaajjeMV, an official at the high commission revealed that a cargo ferry will depart from the port city of Tuticorin, India to Maldives on Monday.
Discussions to initiate the service between both countries was held during Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Maldives during 2019, after the PM’s address to the People’s Majlis. Following this, an agreement was signed between the neighboring country’s shipping ministry and the transport ministry of Maldives.
Discussions to begin operating cargo ferries between Maldives and India were held during the tenure of ex-President and Parliament Speaker Mohamed Nasheed as well.
In mid august, the High Commission of India in the Maldives announced that cargo ferry services are to be launched between Maldives and India in September.
Reflecting on the sea links between the countries described as means to enhance trade and commerce, both foreign ministers of India and Maldives welcomed the announcement that the cargo ferry service between Cochin, Kulhudhuffushi City-Malé will begin operating. The operation of ferry services is expected to further strengthen trade, especially in the north.
The island nation’s Tourism Minister Dr. Abdulla Mausoom had also highlighted that the operation of the service has great potential for tourism and trade and that more hotel room beds are required to be established in Thiladhunmathi atoll for a “mega super speed passenger ferry” to be feasible. In this regard, the minister expressed hope that the government will be successful in adding more beds by mid 2022.
The high commission went on to reveal that the cargo ferry has a 3,000 metric ton capacity. Ferries are scheduled twice a month with machineries, perishable as well as furniture. The service will prove to be immensely beneficial for traders in both countries.
India had imported goods worth MVR 4.4 billion to the Maldives during last year which includes food supply, construction goods, cosmetics, clothing as well as medical consumables.
Maldives and India will celebrate 55 years since the establishment of formal diplomatic ties on November 1.
