Sri Vijaya Puram, July 15: Maritime connectivity in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands is set for an expansion after the newly inducted passenger vessel MV Saroj arrived at Long Island on July 14, with regular passenger services between Long Island and Yerrata expected to commence soon.
The vessel reached Long Island at around 1:15 p.m. carrying a crew of six, marking the latest addition to the Directorate of Shipping Services’ fleet aimed at improving transportation links in the Islands.
According to available information, MV Saroj will operate on the Long Island–Yerrata route after completing the necessary arrangements for commencement of regular services. The proposed operation is expected to improve connectivity for residents and daily commuters who depend on inter-island passenger transport.
The Directorate of Shipping Services (DSS) has leased MV Saroj for a period of five years as part of its efforts to strengthen maritime transport services across the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
The induction of the vessel comes as the Administration continues to augment passenger transport infrastructure across the Islands, where sea transport remains the primary mode of connectivity between several inhabited islands and remote locations.
MV Saroj’s arrival is expected to add operational capacity to the existing maritime transport network serving Long Island and adjoining areas. Once services begin, the vessel will operate on the Long Island–Yerrata sector, providing an additional passenger transport option for the region.
Officials have indicated that the vessel is expected to begin regular operations on the route shortly.
The induction of MV Saroj under a five-year lease reflects the Directorate of Shipping Services’ continuing efforts to enhance maritime connectivity in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands through the addition of passenger vessels on key routes.
