Sri Vijaya Puram, May 6: The Directorate of Shipping Services (DSS) has announced a special sailing arrangement of MV Kalighat to facilitate transportation for candidates and passengers in view of the ongoing recruitment process being conducted by the Forest Department in the Southern Group of Islands.
According to official information, the initiative has been undertaken to ensure smooth travel arrangements for aspiring candidates residing in remote islands, enabling them to participate in the recruitment process without transportation difficulties.
Officials stated that the special voyage has been planned to provide equal opportunity and accessibility to eligible participants from distant island regions. The arrangement is expected to benefit candidates travelling from various islands in the Nicobar district and other southern island areas.
As per the schedule released by the DSS, the vessel MV Kalighat will sail for Campbell Bay via Little Andaman, Car Nicobar, Chowra, Teressa, Katchal, and Nancowry on May 7, 2026, at 7 am from Haddo Wharf.
The vessel will return to Sri Vijaya Puram on May 9, 2026, at 12 noon from Campbell Bay through the same route, allowing candidates and passengers to travel back after completion of recruitment-related formalities.
The Directorate informed that passenger ticket booking for the special sailing will commence from May 6, 2026, at 9 am onwards for the general public. Tickets can be booked online through the DSS e-ticketing portal.
Authorities have also provided a QR code linked directly to the online booking portal to facilitate easier access for passengers. In addition to online booking, tickets will also be available at STARS ticketing counters across designated locations.
The special arrangement comes amid increased movement of candidates from remote islands for government recruitment examinations and selection procedures. Transportation between southern islands and the capital region often remains a challenge due to limited vessel schedules and long travel durations.
Officials said the exclusive sailing has been planned keeping in view the importance of timely travel for candidates appearing in the recruitment process. The move is expected to reduce inconvenience and ensure better connectivity during the examination and selection period.
The Directorate of Shipping Services has advised passengers and candidates to complete ticket bookings in advance and follow all travel-related guidelines issued by authorities for smooth boarding and voyage operations.
