Journalist Jegan recently conducted a literary research and produced a documentary that highlights the historicity of the ferry service that used to run between Talaimannan and Rashmeshwaram. The documentary advocates for the restoration of the ferry service to help develop the Mannar region's economy.
Mannar was once a thriving cosmopolis, enjoying economic, cultural, and social prosperity. However, several factors have contributed to the region's recent decline. According to Jegan's research, the port city was once bustling with business and trade, which greatly benefited the local economy. However, the discontinuation of services in the harbours of the port city led to a decline in the city's fortunes.
Jegan's documentary, which has been sponsored by the Mannar Rotary Club, emphasizes the need to restore Mannar as a cosmopolis and port city. It highlights the various types of entrepreneurs who have been forced out of the local economy due to a lack of opportunities presented by the market economy in Sri Lanka. They have had to rely on selling their labour to small enterprises to generate an income for their immediate needs.
Jegan's documentary argues that the restoration of the ferry service between Talaimannan and Rashmeshwaram will help Mannar to develop further economically. Multiple copies of the documentary have been presented to the Government Agent to be handed over to the President Ranil Wickramasinghe, Asst. High Commissioner to Sri Lanka from India Rakesh Natraj Jeyabaskaran, and the Governor of the Northern Province Jeevan Thiagarajah.
The documentary also highlights the commerce that took place in Kattukkarai, which was an area bustling with business and commerce. Wholesale agents that conduct business with producers in Mannar point out the transport costs involved in purchasing products at low rates and selling them for greater profits.
Overall, Jegan's documentary advocates for the restoration of Mannar as a cosmopolis, side by side with a port city, to revive the region's once-thriving economy. The documentary highlights the historicity of the ferry service and argues that its restoration will benefit the region's economic growth.
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