The Nagapattinam–Kankesanthurai ferry corridor could see a major boost, as the Tamil Nadu Maritime Board (TNMB) moves towards introducing multiple operators for passenger and cargo services between India and Sri Lanka.

The board issued an Expression of Interest (EOI) on November 2, inviting vessel owners and companies to operate high-speed craft (HSC) on the international route. Since its relaunch in October 2023, the ferry service has recorded over 66,000 passenger movements.

Rising passenger numbers are strengthening the case for expansion. The route handled 24,598 passenger movements in 2025, followed by 20,977 movements during the first eight months of 2026.

TNMB is also looking beyond passenger connectivity, exploring passenger-cum-cargo operations to tap into growing trade opportunities between the two countries. During January–June 2026, bilateral cargo movement included 10,902 TEUs of exports from India and 7,091 TEUs of imports.

Introducing multiple operators could improve sailing frequency and provide greater flexibility for travellers and cargo users. At present, Subham Ferry Services operates one round trip daily, with one-way fares ranging from ₹6,000 to ₹7,000.

The international ferry connection was restored on October 14, 2023, after a gap of nearly 40 years due to the Sri Lankan civil conflict. Nagapattinam port already has a dedicated international passenger terminal with a capacity to accommodate over 300 passengers at a time.

The expansion could also strengthen tourism and pilgrimage connectivity between the two regions, linking destinations such as Velankanni, Nagore and Poompuhar in Tamil Nadu with Jaffna’s cultural and religious attractions, including Nallur Kandaswamy Temple, Jaffna Fort and Nagadeepa Purana Vihara.