MV Sentinel Makes a Historic Sailing to Makachua and Afra Bay
Sri Vijaya Puram, May 16: In a landmark initiative to enhance connectivity for remote tribal communities, the Islands of Makachua and Afra Bay have been included as Calling Ports during vessel sailings between Sri Vijaya Puram and Campbell Bay via all ports. This development comes in response to a request made by the tribal community of Little Nicobar and Campbell Bay Island during the recent visit of the Chief Secretary, A&N Administration.
On 8th May, 2025, the Shipping Department scheduled the vessel MV Sentinel to call at Makachua and Afra Bay as part of its voyage. This historic sailing marked the first time an Inter-Island vessel has reached these ports post-tsunami. Despite challenging weather conditions, the vessel successfully called at both the Islands during its onward and return journeys.
Upon MV Sentinel’s arrival at Makachua Island, the tribal community expressed their heartfelt gratitude and shared joy by performing a traditional ‘flowering at sea’ ceremony, warmly welcoming the vessel.
Moving forward, regular services to Makachua and Afra Bay will be scheduled on the second Thursday of every month from Sri Vijaya Puram. This initiative underscores the A&N Administration’s commitment to improve accessibility and addressing the needs of tribal communities too.
The residents of Makachua and Afra Bay have extended their sincere thanks to the Chief Secretary, A&N Administration, Shipping (Secretary), and Director of Shipping Services for their relentless efforts in making this long-awaited connectivity turn into a reality.