Staff Correspondent
Sri Vijaya Puram, July 20: The Directorate of Shipping Services (DSS) has entered into charter agreements with three private operators for the operation of 50-passenger (Pax) vessels at Long Island, Diglipur and Nancowry with the objective of strengthening maritime connectivity for residents of these areas.
The first chartered vessel, MV Saroj, commenced its maiden voyage on the Long Island–Yeratta route at 7.00 a.m. on July 20. The inaugural sailing was flagged off by Long Island Pradhan Mr. B. Kamaraju in the presence of Deputy Director of Shipping Services Mr. J. Gopinath and local residents during a brief function held at Long Island.
According to the Directorate, the remaining chartered vessels for Diglipur and Nancowry are expected to be inducted into service shortly.
The Directorate of Shipping Services clarified that all chartered ferries will operate strictly under the control and supervision of DSS. The operators will be required to adhere to the approved sailing schedules and comply with all operational standards, safety regulations and service requirements prescribed by the Directorate.
The Directorate also assured passengers that the induction of chartered vessels will not result in any increase in ferry fares. Passenger fares will continue to be regulated and notified by the Directorate of Shipping Services, and commuters will continue to avail ferry services at the existing Government-approved rates.
Reaffirming its commitment to improving marine transportation, the Directorate stated that it will continue its efforts to strengthen maritime connectivity by providing safe, reliable, affordable and passenger-friendly ferry services across the Islands.
