Kerala is poised to mark a major milestone in inland water transport with the commissioning of the 225-kilometre Akkulam-Chettuva stretch of National Waterway-3 this month. This segment forms part of the larger 590-km Kovalam-Bekal West Coast Canal project, which aims to connect the state from Kovalam in the south to Nileshwar in the north, traversing 11 districts.
According to officials, the inauguration is tentatively scheduled for February 26 and may feature Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan arriving on a seaplane at Kadinamkulam Lake. The demonstration is intended to showcase the feasibility of seaplane operations on Kerala’s backwaters, including stretches like Vembanad and Kadinamkulam, and is supported by Cochin International Airport Ltd (CIAL) in partnership with potential operators such as IndiGo.
The West Coast Canal project, originally proposed in 2006 and revived in 2018, aims to develop a navigable inland water corridor to boost tourism, cargo transport, and overall economic growth. The 225-km Akkulam-Chettuva stretch is the first segment slated for commissioning, with most construction already completed, except for a few areas in Varkala affected by landslips. Remaining work is expected to conclude by February 20.
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Preparations for the launch include temporary waterdromes at Kadinamkulam Lake for the seaplane landing, solar boats positioned along the waterway, and a seven-minute light-and-sound infotainment show inside the 330-metre Chilakkoor tunnel in Varkala, depicting the history of Travancore and the legacy of Sree Narayana Guru. The event aims to combine technological demonstration with cultural storytelling.
The project, backed by Kerala Infrastructure Investment Fund Board (KIIFB) with an allocation of Rs 2,556 crore, includes canal rejuvenation, land acquisition, rehabilitation, and infrastructure development. The waterway is proposed to be 40 metres wide with a draft of 2.2 metres, enabling large-scale cargo movement and commercial navigation along the state’s backwaters.
Officials emphasize that the launch of this stretch represents a step toward realizing Kerala’s vision of a modern inland water transport system, enhancing connectivity while promoting sustainable tourism and economic development. Stakeholders are optimistic that the project will attract both domestic and international attention, showcasing Kerala as a model for integrated waterway transport.
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