Minister Nimal Siripala, Indian envoy discuss expansion of maritime and aviation services

A special discussion was held last week between Indian High Commissioner Gopal Baglay and Ports, Shipping, and Aviation Minister Nimal Siripala de Silva on the enhancement of maritime and aviation services between the two countries.

Several measures to elevate bilateral relations between the two countries were also discussed.

The Indian High Commissioner highlighted during the discussions that Alliance Air, an Indian airline, had successfully completed 100 flight operations between Madras and Palali airports.

The current demand for air travel between these two destinations is significant and recognising this development, the Minister requested the Indian High Commissioner to enhance the number of flights connecting these destinations and explore the potential to extend flights from Madras to Palali, upto to Ratmalana. The Indian High Commissioner expressed consent for a positive feedback after discussions with relevant authorities. He also mentioned that Sri Lanka’s request for a soft loan facility from India to extend the runway at Palali airport is currently being evaluated. “India is actively considering providing assistance for the requested infrastructure improvement,” he said.

With reference to the ongoing talks regarding the initiation of a passenger ferry service connecting the two nations, the Indian High Commissioner highlighted the potential for a favourable outcome following thorough deliberations on the relevant matters by the Joint Committee established in accordance with the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) agreed upon by both parties in 2011.

Here, the Minister emphasised the need to accelerate the launch of the passenger ferry service between the two countries, recognising its significance in providing greater convenience for low-income pilgrims from Sri Lanka who wish to visit Bodhgaya and other Buddhist religious sites in India. Furthermore, he expressed Sri Lanka’s continuous readiness to welcome passenger vessels adhering to international standards from any Indian port.

The Minister emphasised that the merger with Indian Railways, following the commencement of the passenger ferry service, would greatly enhance transportation facilities for pilgrims visiting Bodhgaya and other religious sites. The Minister earnestly requested the full assistance of the Indian Government in support of this endeavour.

Indian High Commission’s First Secretary (Commerce and Culture) Irina Thakur also attended the discussion.