NEW DELHI — A steep hike in ship fares to and from Lakshadweep has triggered widespread outrage among residents and political leaders, with growing calls for an immediate rollback. The Lakshadweep administration has increased passenger ship fares by over 40%, raising concerns over deepening economic hardship for islanders already grappling with limited connectivity and rising living costs.
The fare hike came into effect on Sunday, without any prior notice or public consultation. According to the new rates, the fare for a bunk seat from Kochi to Kavaratti has gone up from ₹330 to ₹470. Second-class tickets now cost ₹1,820, up from ₹1,300. First-class fares have risen from ₹3,510 to ₹4,920, while VIP class now stands at a staggering ₹8,560. The revised pricing also extends to high-speed vessels that connect various islands in the archipelago.
CPI(M) MP Raises Alarm
Expressing serious concern, CPI(M) Rajya Sabha MP from Kerala, Dr. V. Sivadasan, has written to Union Home Minister Amit Shah, demanding an immediate rollback of the fare hike. In his letter, Dr. Sivadasan said the move would impose a significant financial burden on the residents of Lakshadweep, many of whom depend entirely on ship services for travel, access to healthcare, education, and essential supplies.
“This abrupt increase in ship fares, without any public discussion or prior information, is unacceptable. It disregards the harsh realities faced by islanders who are already suffering due to reduced connectivity and inflation,” Dr. Sivadasan stated.
He further pointed out that ship connectivity has been severely curtailed in recent months. Currently, only two vessels are operational in the Union Territory, while several others remain inactive due to lack of maintenance or administrative delays. This shortage has not only affected passenger movement but also led to irregular supply of essential commodities, contributing to rising prices and scarcity of goods on the islands.
Impact on Residents and Local Economy
The people of Lakshadweep heavily rely on ship services for nearly every aspect of daily life — from medical referrals to higher education travel and procurement of household essentials. The revised fares are unaffordable for large sections of the population, particularly students, patients, and economically weaker families, said Dr. Sivadasan.
He emphasized that the new fare structure would further isolate the islands, discouraging essential travel and amplifying the ongoing sense of neglect felt by local communities.
“Such a decision, taken unilaterally, is a clear departure from democratic practices and administrative sensitivity,” he added.
Call for Immediate Intervention
In addition to demanding a rollback of the fare hike, Dr. Sivadasan has urged the Union Government to expedite the repair and redeployment of non-operational vessels to restore full connectivity across the archipelago. He also called for the introduction of travel concessions for vulnerable groups, including students, patients, and the economically disadvantaged.
“The Union Government must ensure that future decisions affecting the lives of the islanders are made transparently and in consultation with local stakeholders. This is not just an economic issue — it’s about the fundamental right of people to mobility and access,” he said.
Political Silence
Efforts to obtain a response from Lakshadweep’s lone Member of Parliament, Muhammed Hamdullah Sayeed, were unsuccessful. He remained unavailable for comment despite repeated attempts by Clarion India.
The fare hike comes at a time when the islands are still reeling from previous administrative actions under the current administration, which many locals and opposition leaders have criticized as unilateral and disruptive. From changes in land use to beef restrictions and educational reforms, the administration has faced allegations of ignoring local traditions, public sentiment, and elected voices.
With growing unrest and frustration among the residents, political pressure is mounting on the Union Government to address the situation urgently and restore both affordability and accessibility for the people of Lakshadweep.
