Kerala's Water Transport Department to roll out solar boat service in Kumarakom

Tourists visiting the scintillating countryside of Kerala's Kumarakom can soon explore the mesmerising backwaters on solar-powered boats launched by the State Water Transport Department (SWTD). The trial run of the solar-powered boat, Saura, was recently conducted along the stipulated route.

The water transpor authority has chosen the scenic Muhamma – Kannankara – Cheepunkal – Maniyaparambu route in the initial phase. The tourism boat will be launched after considering the transport boat's schedule on this route, so as not to affect regular passengers.

Currently, diesel-powered passenger boats operate on this route. The passenger boats are apparently operating at a loss due to a decline in passenger numbers. Meanwhile, the solar boat has a seating capacity of 30. The ticket fare and launch date will be announced later. 

More routes
The authorities plan to operate boat services from Cheepunkal to Pathiramanal and Thannermukkam bund as well. The boat operating on the Maniyaparambu route will also be used for this service. Besides, water taxis may also be launched here. The SWTD’s boat has been successfully operating services from Muhamma to Pathiramanal. 

Need for a boat jetty
Meanwhile, the public are pointing out that a new boat jetty has to be built urgently at the Thannermukkam bund so that various boat services could operate to the popular tourist spot. Besides, the authorities should soon find a solution to prevent the light atop the solar boat from touching the Cheepunkal bridge. Now, tourists arriving in Kumarakom mostly rely on private boats to enjoy rides in the lake. They are forced to shell out hefty sums to hire private boats for this. Tourists can enjoy enchanting views of the lakes and backwaters on boats operated by the SWTD without burning a hole in their pockets, they point out.