Kanyakumari: Restoration work on Tamraparni, the boat that ferries tourists from Kanyakumari to Vattakottai Fort, is in its final stages and is expected to be ready within the next two weeks.

The ₹60-lakh project has been expedited ahead of the tourist season so that the 75-seat, fully air-conditioned vessel can resume service without disruption. Until then, the Thiruvalluvar remains the only boat operating trips to the fort.

The restoration is taking place at a private boat manufacturing yard in Chinnamuttam Port. As part of the work, the iron sheets in the hull and two sides have been entirely replaced, with welding and structural repairs progressing rapidly.

Pending work includes fitting new seats, overhauling the engine, upgrading the air-conditioning system, and giving the vessel a fresh coat of paint.