KOCHI: In order to promote tourism and passenger service in Ernakulam, the Kerala State Water Transport Department (KSWTD) will soon introduce the concept of a tourism-cum-passenger boat service in Ernakulam.According to the proposal, the boat service is expected to connect the islands of Vypeen, Fort Kochi, Mulavukad, Mattancherry and Willingdon Island giving the tourists a feel of the backwaters of Kochi as well as a chance to travel at a cheaper cost.“Such a tourist boat operated under the KSWTD is an opportunity to travel at cheaper rates for both the passengers and the tourists. It could mostly benefit the local tourists. There is also a concept to introduce a snack bar at the lower deck so that people can have access to food and soft drinks,” said Joseph Xavier, KSWTD superintendent, Kochi.Even daily passengers can use this service. They can board and get off at various boat jetties in Ernakulam. “The duration of a trip is two-and-a-half hours. Four boats will conduct eight services every day. The concept will be a huge success in Ernakulam. We are confident that it will help tourists and passengers alike,” Shaji said. According to officials, if the proposal realises, it will help reduce the problems that the water transport sector in Kochi is facing. “At present, the boats operating under the KSWTD are often crowded as both the tourists and the daily passengers depend on a few available boat services,” Joseph Xavier said.The KSWTD is at present running such a concept boat in the Alappuzha-Kollam sector, which have fetched a huge profit for the department as well as boosting the tourism potential there. “We are set to introduce similar concept boats in the Kuttanad region by January. The fare will be `300 per head. It will give the tourists an opportunity to view the Punnamada lake and other archeological sites,” Shaji said.
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