Kerala - Kannur   

`Wharf site will be finalised after cost analysis'

Staff Reporter

KANNUR: Lakshadweep Administrator Parimal Rai said that a comprehensive study would be conducted on the cost of vessel operation before finalising the port site for developing a dedicated berth for vessels to and from the islands.

Mr. Rai who reached here on Monday on a two-day visit to study the Azhikkal port site and discuss the proposal with the district administration, people's representatives and Port Department officials, said Beypore and Azhikkal were the two ports being considered by the island administration for developing the exclusive wharf.

Mr. Rai, who had already visited the Beypore port, said that his tour of the region was to see both the ports and take a considered view before making final selection of the port for exclusive berthing facilities.

"The administration will consider which of the two ports would be more beneficial to the people of Lakshadweep and Kerala," Mr. Rai said in response to questions from mediapersons. While Beypore had the advantage of being a `functional port', the administration would look into the cost of operations, which would determine the cost of food articles and building materials being shipped to the islands from the mainland.

Stating that it would take some more time to make a final selection, the Administrator said that since "we are trying to get the positives of both the ports, we will also consider whether we should have both the ports or just one."

Mr. Rai held discussions with District Collector K.S. Srinivas and A.P. Abdullakutty, MP.

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