Tourists are now hiring houseboats at high costs
A view of Pathiramanal on the route.
KOTTAYAM: The state water transport department proposed a boat service from Alappuzha to Kumarakom via Pathiramanal almost three years ago. But it reached nowhere. The aim was to provide both the foreign and domestic tourists with the luxury of a boat ride at a minimum price. Tourists are now hiring houseboats at high costs.
The feasibility study for the project was conducted by experts from Cochin University of Science and Technology (CUSAT) and they had submitted a report to the government. However, the authorities say it will take some more time to get it approved by the government.
“We haven’t received the report so far. All aspects, including fares, will be decided after considering its financial viability,” Joseph Xavier, the traffic superintendent of the department, told DC. The department now operates only one boat service from Kollam to Alappuzha. It costs Rs 400 a person. As per the study, a tourist boat can reach Kumarakom in 75 minutes at a speed of six nautical miles an hour. The visitors can enjoy the scenic beauty of Pathiramanal.
The small island in the backwaters of Alappuzha is a haven for hundreds of rare birds migrating from different parts of the world. Surrounded by the Vembanad Lake, stretching from Alappuzha to Kochi, and Kayamkulam lake, Pathiramanal is accessible only by boat.
( Source : deccan chronicle )
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