Kochi: After launching the solar boat on Vaikom-Thavanakkadavu route, the state water transport department (SWTD) is aiming at fast ferry services on the Vaikom-Ernakulam route by April end. “The construction of hull of the catamaran-type twin-engine boat is over, and the remaining works are progressing at a private boat yard in Aroor. Now we are targeting to start the operation by April,” said Shaji V. Nair, SWTD director. Once operational, the service will be its fastest with the boat set to travel at a speed of 12 knots, double that of normal ones.
“The front portion will be air-conditioned with 50 seats. We expect the service to attract tourists in a big way," he said. “The remaining 70 seats are aimed at daily commuters. The boat could cover the distance in 1.5 hours without the hustle and bustle of city traffic. We’re yet to finalise the ticket rates. However, we’re trying to keep the fares (non-AC) below that of the KSRTC superfast charges.” The boat will have stops at Thevara, Perumbalam and Chemmanakary before reaching Vaikom. The project cost is met out of Rs 1.75 crore from Vaikom MLA A. Ajith’s Local Area Development Fund.
