Along the coastline of Sri Lanka's Northern Province, a steady flow of barges connects inland areas to the open sea. This is Kayts Port—a lesser-known yet vital node in regional shipping networks. Operating as a quiet logistical hub, it facilitates the seamless transfer and transportation of goods.
Overview of Kayts Port
Kayts Port, located in Sri Lanka's Northern Province, primarily handles barge-based cargo operations. Identified by the five-letter code LKKAY, its strategic position makes it a critical link between the Indian subcontinent and Sri Lanka, particularly for trade along the India-Pakistan shipping route.
Key Port Data
- Location: Kayts, Northern Province, Sri Lanka
- Port Type: City port, barge port
- Primary Shipping Route: India-Pakistan corridor
- Maximum Draft: 6.1 meters
- Water Density: 1025
- Anchorage Depth: Outer anchorage: 4.27–5.49 meters (suitable for post-discharge vessel movement). Inner anchorage: 7.32 meters with sandy seabed.
Services and Infrastructure
Kayts Port operates year-round, with peak activity during the southwest monsoon season. Available services include:
- Freshwater and Provisions: Ensures vessel resupply capabilities.
- Medical Support: Basic healthcare services for crews.
- Tugboat Assistance: Supports berthing and departure maneuvers.
- Repatriation Facilities: Provides necessary crew transfer arrangements.
The port does not offer pilotage, radio communication, ship repair, dry dock, or fuel bunkering services. Container handling infrastructure is absent, with cargo operations relying exclusively on barge transfers.
Hydrographic Conditions
Tidal fluctuations significantly impact water depth at Kayts. Low tide levels range from 1.75–2.13 meters, while high tide elevates depths to 2.21–2.36 meters. Vessels must account for tidal variations, particularly during southwest monsoon periods when approach channels may experience navigational challenges.
Strategic Importance
Despite its modest scale, Kayts Port fulfills an indispensable role in Northern Sri Lanka's maritime ecosystem through its specialized barge operations and geographical advantage. For commercial entities engaged in India-Pakistan route trade, understanding Kayts' operational parameters enables optimized logistics planning and route efficiency.