Sri Lanka - 2.1.5 Port of Kankesanthurai

Port Overview

Kankesanthurai (KKS) Port serves as both a navy and a commercial port in the Northern Province. It is under full control of the Sri Lanka Navy and operates as a high-security area. However, there are plans to introduce passenger ship services to India. During the civil war period before 2009, WFP food supply ships were unable to dock at the terminal due to insufficient underwater clearance caused by sunken warships. However, the harbour area has now been cleared, allowing ships to access the docking terminal. The port has the capacity to accommodate ships weighting from 10,000 to 15,000 MT.

The port, once defunct during the Sri Lankan Civil War, holds the strategic position of being the closest port to those in eastern India, Myanmar, and Bangladesh. Recognizing this proximity advantage, a rehabilitation and improvement project is currently underway to revive the port's functionality and boost economic growth in the region, which involves repairing and rehabilitating existing breakwaters, piers, roads, dredging, removing wrecks, and the construction of a new pier. To date, the dredging in turning basin up to depth of 8 m has already been completed to ensure cargo handling work continuously without interruption.

Port website: https://www.slpa.lk/port-colombo/kankesanthurai

Key port information may also be found at: http://www.maritime-database.com

Port Picture

Ferry Services

Ferry services for passenger and goods transportation are available in the Jaffna district, with the potential to support humanitarian operations. The district's proximity to India further enhances this advantage.

Currently, there is one intra-district ferry available for passenger service, following a fixed route. Internationally, a ferry passenger service between India and Sri Lanka began in April 2023. The ferry travels from Karaikal Port in Pondicherry, southern India, to Kankesanthurai port, with a daily round trip. Departure from Karaikal Port is at 8 am every day, and the return from Kankesanthurai port is at 2 am. The ferry has a capacity of 150 passengers and takes approximately 4 hours for a one-way trip. The ticket price for a one-way journey is $50, and the baggage allowance is 100-150 kg.

There are currently 3 to 4 cargo ferries operational within the district. These ferries are available for hire for the transportation of goods. Depending on the type of commodity, their loading capacity can range from 12.5 MT to 15.5 MT. The routes can be adjusted upon request. The rates for these ferries vary over time, depending on factors such as fuel prices.

Port Security

The Sri Lankan Navy is responsible for ensuring port security.