The operation of Shikara boats and other small boats in various waterways of Alappuzha district, including backwaters and creeks, has been prohibited by the District Collector until further notice. Additionally, it has been advised that houseboats in the district strictly adhere to safety measures.
To ensure the order is strictly enforced, the District Superintendent of Police, DTPC Secretary, Deputy Director of Tourism, and LSGD Joint Director have been assigned the responsibility. The decision to ban boat services, including Shikara, was made due to the heavy rainfall experienced in Alappuzha over the past few days.
Shikhara is a compact taxi boat measuring approximately 15 feet in length. Featuring a vibrant wooden canopy and a distinctive hull shape, this vessel stands out from the rest. The limitation on its use stems from safety concerns, particularly during the rainy season.
On Tuesday alone, the district recorded 100.04 mm of rain, and the IMD has forecasted an intensification of the monsoon in Kerala within the next 24 hours. As a result of the heavy rains, low-lying areas in the district have become waterlogged.
