New Delhi. January 11 (newsin.asia): An agreement for an Indian assistance of US $ 45.27 million (LKR 6.9 billion) for upgrading the Kankesanthurai (KKS) Harbor in North Sri Lanka was signed on January 10 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.
The upgrading would make KKS Harbor 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 is an MoU between India and Sri Lanka for the rehabilitation of KKS Harbour. Four out of the six phases of the rehabilitation have already been completed under India’s grant assistance.
This includes preparation of Detailed Project Report (DPR), works related to geo-technical studies, wreck removal and disposal, dredging and hydrographic survey.
The fresh assistance of US $ 45.27 million would be used for the remaining two phases involving works relating to the rehabilitation of the breakwater and existing pier, construction of a new pier for commercial cargo handling, installation of port infrastructure facilities and so on ,a press release from the Indian High Commission said.
(The picture at the top shows Indian engineers clearing the Kankesathurai harbor of wrecks. Photo: Govt of India)