The Cabinet of ministers has approved a proposal by President Mahinda Rajapaksa to sign a Memorandum of Understanding with the Indian government to carry out the development of the Port.

The project, to be carried out in two phases, will involve the repairs to the existing breakwater, jetty and deepening of the harbor. A new breakwater will also to be constructed under the project.

During the armed conflict the development of infrastructure in the rebel-controlled areas stalled and existing infrastructures were damaged and destroyed. Operation of the KKS port, now declared as one of the ten entry sea and air entry points to the country, was hindered.

Authorities say the development of KKS harbor will facilitate the transportation of goods from nearby Indian ports.

The development of the port will be a major lift for the country's security and for the economic and social development of the war-torn North.