ALAPPUZHA: After the unprecedented success of the ‘See Kuttanad’ tourist cum passenger boat services, the State Water Transport Department (SWTD) is all set to start similar services in Kollam, Alappuzha, Kottayam and Kochi. A proposal in this connection has been submitted and the SWTD is waiting for the nod from the state government.
SWTD officials say that they need a total of Rs 4.45 crore for executing this project. “We will run luxurious double-decker boats for tourists from Kumarakom to Kottayam via Alappuzha.
Another boat will offer cruising services in Ashtamudi Lake in Kollam. A luxurious double decker boat will start it circular service from Ernakulam boat jetty for tourists.
The boat will go through Fort Kochi, Mattancherry and Vypeen,” an officer of the department said.
These boats will have a seating capacity of 90 passengers. The upper deck a 30-seater, will be completely reserved and exclusive for tourists. It will have a music system, LCD TV and an ice-cream corner. The lower deck with a 60 seats is available for nominal rates. However, tourists who prefer the upper deck, should pay the special ticket charges.
Officials said that they have decided to start these three boat services after the stupendous success of ‘See Kuttanad’ Project. The SWTD began ‘See Kuttanad’ project on May 23, 2012.
Daily, the department operates seven circular services under this project for the tourists from the Boat Jetty here.
There is a double decker boat for this purpose. The ticket charge for the upper deck is Rs 80 and lower deck Rs 20. The boat takes tourists to the interior corners of Kuttanad where road transportation is still a distant dream for people.