ALAPPUZHA: Elaborate arrangements have been made for the smooth conduct of the 62nd Nehru Trophy Boat Race (NTBR) slated to be held on Punnamada backwaters on August 9.Governor Sheila Dikshit will inaugurate the boat race. As many as 72 boats, including 22 snake boats, will participate in the event.
“It’s for the first time in the history of the boat race , 72 boats are participating in the race,” District Collector N Padmakumar told reporters here on Tuesday. Prior to the race, a meeting will be held at the venue at 2 pm. Ministers, local MPs and MLAs will be present at the function inaugurated by the Governor. The snake boat race will be flagged off at 3.15 pm and the prize distribution will be held at 5.30 pm.