US $ 62 million Indian grant on KKS port Sri Lanka will decide on feasibility of project only

• India is pursuing several connectivity projects in Sri Lanka

By Kelum Bandara

Sri Lanka will decide on the acceptance of over US $ 62 million grant for the development of Kankesanthurai Port (KKS),  depending on the business feasibility of the project only, Deputy Minister of Ports and Civil Aviation Janitha Kodituwakku said yesterday.

India has already offered the grant for the development of the port in the north, which is in close proximity. The Deputy Minister told the Daily Mirror that the Sri Lanka Ports Authority is currently carrying out a feasibility study on the port.
“We will work out a business plan. After that, we will decide whether to accept the grant or not,” he said.

India has sought to develop various connectivity projects in Sri Lanka. The two sides have already exchanged MoUs for the interconnection of two power grids and the establishment of a multi-product petroleum pipeline.
Currently, there is a ferry service between the two countries.