Thiruvananthapuram: Transport Minister AK Sasheendran has announced that inter-district ferry services will be resumed tomorrow as bus services resume in the state. It has also decided to restore some of the old fares by increasing boat fares. Passengers will be allowed in all seats. Travel by boat is not allowed.
The State Water Transport Department has a total of 54 boats and 5 rescue boats. The boat which runs on the Vaikom-Ernakulam route connects the 3 districts and is not in service at present. A total of 11 boats will operate inter-district services connecting the two districts. The remaining 42 boats will operate within the district. Prior to the lockdown, a total of 748 ferry were operated. However, the travel time is limited to 5 am to 9 pm and the services will be less than what was previously served.
The inter-district services will run from Vaikkom 4, Muhamma-Kumarakom-3, Kottayam-Alappuzha-3 and Kannur-Kasaragod-1. Travelers must wear a mask and use a sanitizer. Travelers will not be allowed to board or unload passengers from hot spots or containment areas. The Minister also directed the Director of State Water Transport Department to ensure all safety measures.
