Sethusamudram Shipping Canal Project, Maritime infrastructure project in Palk Strait, India
Description
The Sethusamudram Shipping Canal Project is a proposed 167-kilometer waterway connecting the Gulf of Mannar to Palk Bay through Indian territorial waters. The canal would have a width of about 800 meters and depth of 12 meters to accommodate large commercial vessels.
History
The concept of a direct shipping route between India's western and eastern coasts originated in 1860 when Commander Taylor of the Indian Marines first proposed the idea. The project was revived and studied again in the 2000s with modern feasibility assessments.
Culture
The area near Rameshwaram holds deep meaning for pilgrims traveling from across India for spiritual reasons. Local communities view this crossing point as connected to their religious traditions and maritime history.
Practical
Visitors can explore the region from several coastal towns, particularly Rameshwaram, which is accessible by road and rail. The area offers viewpoints and resting areas where you can observe the strait and the planned project site.
Did you know?
The project would dramatically shorten sea travel time for ships that currently must navigate around Sri Lanka. This reduction in maritime routes would significantly impact regional shipping economics and trade patterns.
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide. Discover all places nearby (India).
Pamban Bridge
43.3 km
Ramanathaswamy Temple
33.2 km
Gulf of Mannar Marine National Park
9.5 km
Thiruppullani
81.2 km
Nainativu Nagapooshani Amman Temple
63.6 km
Shrine of Our Lady of Madhu
76.9 km
Dhanushkodi Beach
24.7 km
Rameswaram TV Tower
34.2 km
Jaffna Fort
81.1 km
Nagadeepa Purana Viharaya
62.9 km
Navapashanam temple
83.2 km
Jaffna Public Library
81.3 km
Adam's Bridge Marine National Park
9.3 km
Delft Island Fort
51.8 km
Erwadi dargah
78.4 km
Fort Hammenheil
76.3 km
Old Park
82.3 km
Mannar Fort
42.8 km
Jaffna Archaeological Museum
82.8 km
Vannarpannai Vaitheeswaran Temple
82 km
Palai park
82.4 km
Delft National Park
48 km
Queen's Tower
46.5 km
Kruys Church
81.1 km
Jaffna Clock Tower
81.5 km
St. Sebastian's Cathedral, Mannar
41.6 km
Pamban lighthouse
42 km
Talaimannar Lighthouse
20.3 kmDiscover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes