India to SL ferry service started; 50 on board on Day 1

India and Sri Lanka have launched an international passenger ferry service after almost 40 years. The service, operated by the government-owned Shipping Corporation of India, runs between Nagapattinam in India and Kankesanthurai in Jaffna, northern Sri Lanka. The high-speed craft, Cheriyapani, can carry up to 150 passengers and will make the 60 nautical mile journey in three to four hours. The service is expected to strengthen ties between the two countries and boost trade and tourism. Plans are also being considered for a similar service between Rameswaram and Talaimannar.