DGS relaxes foul weather norms, reviving Sri Lanka, TN trade

The Directorate General of Shipping (DGS) has relaxed foul weather norms for the operation of Mechanised Sailing Vessels (MSV), or thonies, between Thoothukudi (Tamil Nadu) and Sri Lanka, which would allow trade operations throughout the year. This has come as a shot in the arm for maritime trade between the two. Hitherto, the Mercantile Marine Department (MMD) allowed MSVs to set sail only between September and April, considered a fair weather period. The Thoothukudi old harbour, which is also referred to as VOC Port Zone B, can house nearly 25 MSVs, each having capacity to carry 250-400 t cargo. Currently, they are ferrying goods to Maldives and to some Indian states including Lakshadweep islands. Over 500 varieties of goods including onion, garlic, tamarind, turmeric, potato, salt, medicines, herbal medicines and others are exported via MSVs to nearby islands, as per a report.

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