Sri Vijaya Puram, March 22: The passenger vessel M.V. Bharat Seema returned to Sri Vijaya Puram on March 20, 2026, after a prolonged lay-off period in Mumbai, drawing attention to concerns regarding its operational efficiency and the continued expenditure of public funds on its maintenance.
Sources indicate that the vessel had remained out of service for an extended duration and is believed to have undergone significant repair work during its stay in Mumbai. The return of the ship has once again sparked debate among residents and stakeholders about the viability of maintaining such an aging vessel in the island transport network.
It has been observed that despite substantial expenditure on its upkeep and operations, M.V. Bharat Seema frequently remains non-operational for long periods, leading to irregular service. This has caused considerable inconvenience to island residents who rely heavily on dependable maritime connectivity for transportation of both passengers and essential goods.
Concerns have also been raised regarding the financial implications of operating an outdated vessel. The recurring maintenance costs and operational inefficiencies are seen as placing an additional burden on public resources. While the vessel may still hold commercial value for its operator, the Shipping Corporation of India, it is increasingly viewed as inadequate in meeting the public service requirements of the island communities.
There is a growing sentiment that the administration should reassess its continued investment in such aging infrastructure. Experts and local observers suggest that a shift towards chartering or procuring modern, high-speed, and fuel-efficient vessels would be a more sustainable solution. Such an approach could ensure reliable, cost-effective, and uninterrupted maritime services, ultimately improving connectivity and service standards for the people of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
For context, M.V. Bharat Seema was built in 1973 and is among the older vessels still in operation in the region.
