Indian grant to upgrade KKS Harbour | Sunday Observer

Indian grant to upgrade KKS Harbour

14 January, 2018

An agreement for Indian financial assistance of US $ 45.27 million (Rs 6.9 billion) for upgrading Kankesanthurai (KKS) Harbour was signed on January 10, 2018 in New Delhi by David Rasquinha, Managing Director, Export-Import Bank of India and Dr. R.H.S Samaratunga, Secretary to Treasury of Sri Lanka. Senior officials from the governments of India and Sri Lanka were also present.

The upgraded project would make KKS Harbour a full-fledged commercial port, further strengthening Sri Lanka’s efforts to become a regional maritime hub. It would also assist in the reconstruction efforts in northern Sri Lanka.

There exists an MoU between India and Sri Lanka for the rehabilitation of KKS Harbour. Four out of the six phases of the rehabilitation prgramme have been completed with India’s assistance. This includes preparation of a Detailed Project Report (DPR), work related to geo-technical studies, wreck removal and disposal, dredging and a hydrographic survey. The assistance of US $ 45.27 million would be used for the remaining two phases involving work relating to the rehabilitation of the breakwater and existing pier, construction of a new pier for commercial cargo handling, installation of port infrastructure facilities etc. 

Comments