The flagging off ceremony of the Marine Vessel “Lakshadweep Sea” was held yesterday (28 October) at the Colombo Dockyard.

The 250 Passenger cum 100 Tonne Cargo Vessel is the second passenger vessel built by Colombo Dockyard for the Government of India. The first Vessel “Arabian Sea” was delivered on 15 January 2010 which was the first time in history that the Colombo Dockyard had manufactured a passenger vessel for any overseas buyer. The value of the contract for each vessel is 18.3 million USD.

“Lakshadweep Sea”will provide connectivity to the people of Lakshadweep with main land of India by providing uninterrupted transport service to thousands of island commuters.

Speaking on the occasion, the High Commissioner of India, Mr. Ashok K. Kantha said that Colombo Dockyard is an excellent example of achievements and prospects of India-Sri Lanka economic cooperation and engagement.

High Commissioner stressed that the Sri Lankan companies should leverage their strength by using the opportunities provided by the huge Indian market. He said that successful completion of the project undertaken by Colombo Dockyard is a perfect example of three way partnership between India, Sri Lanka and Japan.

The design of the vessel was developed by Indian company Larsen & Toubro, the vessel was fabricated at Sri Lanka and is powered by technology from Japan.

Colombo Dockyard generates 60-70% of its revenues by doing business with Indian companies.

Mr. J. K. Dadoo, Administrator, Union Territory of Lakshadweep, Admiral Thisara Samarsinghe, Commander of Sri Lankan Navy, Mr. Akhihiko Nakauchi, Chairman, Colombo Dockyard and Mr. Mangala P. B. Yapa, Managing Director/ Chief Executive Officer, Colombo Dockyard also participated in the flagging off ceremony.