KOCHI: Worried of ambulances getting stuck in traffic? Another option is now in sight with the Kerala State Water Transport Department (SWTD) planning to introduce water ambulances in the city. Similar to on-road ambulances, the water ambulance service can be availed through telephone calls.
Five water ambulances, it is learnt, are being constructed at a yard near Kottapuram in Thrissur. The watercrafts will be stationed at Ernakulam, Alappuzha, Vaikom, Muhamma and Kottayam. “The construction of three boats has been completed,” a top SWTD officer told Express.
“They are currently undergoing leak tests. The construction of the remaining boats will be completed within a few months. In places like Alappuzha and coastal areas of Ernakulam, the water ambulance can be more useful than those on the road. The ambulance boats can move quickly without much hassle. A telephone number will be provided, using which the people can avail the services of the water ambulance.”
The water ambulances are powered by high capacity engines which enable it to move at a speed of 13 knots compared to other SWTD boats which can attain a maximum speed of only seven knots. “Apart from the facility to move at high speeds, these boats can be used for towing other boats as well. Currently, we have to depend on service boats transporting passengers to tow the boats facing technical snags. The ambulance boats are 40 feet long and can accommodate 16 people. There will be medical kits inside the ambulance to provide first aid. The project costs around Rs 5 crore,” said the officer.
Apart from the water ambulance, SWTD will also introduce water taxis and tourist boats in the city. “We have invited tender for the construction of water taxies. We plan to introduce nine new boats in Ernakulam. Similarly, we will also introduce fast ferry service on the Ernakulam-Vaikom route. The boat is being introduced to attract tourists,” the officer said.