ALAPPUZHA: The state water transport department (SWTD) has expanded its See Kuttanad package to interiors of Kuttanad to woo domestic tourists thronging Alappuzha. The passenger-cum-tourist service from the city started three years back was a big hit initially, but it lost sheen gradually.
The SWTD now hopes for a vibrant season this year to revive its fortunes. The boat has a carrying capacity of 25 in the upper deck, but the occupancy rate is too low. Besides the private boat services, current atmospheric changes also play spoilsport.
“The entire sector had taken a beating,” says boat master Anilal. “Holidaymakers from Malabar have started arriving, and we hope to have more sightseers aboard.” The double-decker had been operating 12 trips to Kainakary in Kuttanad and back each day. It has now become irregular.
“The average daily collection was around Rs 10,000 during the season initially. The ticket rate is Rs 45 per person,” he says. On the other hand, it’s a huge relief for Kuttanad residents who had somehow to wait hours to get a boat to reach home.
The staff includes a driver, a srank, boat master (equivalent to bus conductor) and two lascars. Tea and refreshments are served upper deck. District Tourism Promotion Council (DTPC) secretary C. Pradeep said the service was extremely popular among tourists earlier. “Private boat agents ruined this great service, not letting visitors come here,” he said.
