Sethusamudram Shipping Canal Project, Maritime infrastructure project in Palk Strait, India
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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