Sri Vijaya Puram, Aug 22: The Directorate of Shipping Services has announced the successful and safe resumption of vessel services to Katchal Island, marking a significant milestone in strengthening maritime connectivity for the residents of the Nicobar District.
The Directorate has been providing essential shipping link between Sri Vijaya Puram and Katchal Island through the vessels Nalanda and Sindhu. However, these services were temporarily suspended due to operational constraints and the annual monsoon season. This decision was taken with paramount consideration for the safety of passengers, crew, and vessels in view of adverse weather conditions and challenging sea state.
The Directorate received numerous representations from the residents of Katchal Island and community leaders requesting the revival of this critical service. Responding to this public demand and following a comprehensive review of operational feasibility, the Directorate undertook concerted efforts to address the matter.
Considering specific request of the commuters of Katchal Island, the Directorate instructed the Master of Nalanda to include a scheduled call at Katchal Port during her voyage from Sri Vijaya Puram to Campbell Bay via Nancowry on August 19, 2025.
Through exemplary seamanship and meticulous planning, the Master and crew of Nalanda carried out the directive with utmost regard for safety. Despite persistent inclement weather conditions, the vessel undertook the voyage with all necessary precautionary measures in place. We are pleased to report that Nalanda safely berthed at Katchal Port on August 20, 2025.
This successful operation underscores the Directorate’s commitment to meeting the needs of island communities while maintaining its foremost priority of ensuring safety. The resumption of services to Katchal, even on a call-by-call basis, is a testament to our continued efforts to ensure that islanders remain connected and supported.
The Directorate of Shipping Services expresses its sincere appreciation to the Master and crew of Nalanda for their professionalism and dedication, and conveys its gratitude to the residents of Katchal for their patience and cooperation. The Directorate remains committed to providing safe, reliable, and efficient shipping services to all islands and will continue to monitor prevailing conditions to schedule future calls at Katchal responsibly.