The Union Government is planning to launch new passenger and cargo shipping services connecting Kerala’s Beypore and Kollam ports with Lakshadweep as part of the Sagarmala programme, a move expected to significantly enhance connectivity and create major growth opportunities for Beypore Port.
Under the initiative, four new passenger vessels, each with a capacity of 600 passengers, are proposed to improve travel services to the island territory. The estimated cost of each vessel is around ₹690 crore. The project also includes the acquisition of two multi-purpose cargo vessels with a capacity of 800 metric tonnes each and two high-speed vessels capable of carrying 150 passengers.
The expanded fleet is expected to ease transportation challenges faced by residents, tourists and traders travelling between Lakshadweep and the mainland, while strengthening cargo movement to the islands.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi had earlier indicated the Centre’s plans during the virtual inauguration of port development projects in Kadmat and Kalpeni islands. Significant port infrastructure investments are planned across Lakshadweep under the Sagarmala programme, including developments at Kadmat, Kalpeni, Andrott, Kiltan and Chetlat islands.
Kadmat Island will see port development works worth ₹144.95 crore on the western side and ₹294.67 crore on the eastern side, while Kalpeni Island is slated for projects worth ₹171.92 crore and ₹272.95 crore on its western and eastern sides, respectively. Additional port development projects are planned at Andrott (₹710.54 crore), Kiltan (₹351.87 crore) and Chetlat (₹373.04 crore).
Beypore currently serves as a key gateway for passenger and cargo movement to Lakshadweep and is widely used by exporters from the Malabar region. Representatives of the Export Forum, a collective of exporters from northern Kerala, recently held discussions with senior Lakshadweep administration officials in Kavaratti regarding improved shipping services.
However, limited draft depth at Beypore Port remains a challenge, preventing larger vessels from calling at the port and forcing many ships to operate through Mangaluru. To address this issue, the Kerala Government and the Kerala Maritime Board have initiated measures to deepen the port channel. Industry stakeholders believe that improved port depth, coupled with the proposed new shipping services, could transform Beypore into a stronger maritime hub and boost trade and passenger connectivity with Lakshadweep.