Date:02/03/2008 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2008/03/02/stories/2008030254150100.htm

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Chief Minister lays foundations for marina

Staff Reporter

KOCHI: Chief Minister V.S. Achuthanandan laid the foundations for India’s first marina on Kerala Tourism Development Corporation (KTDC) land at the eastern side of the Bolghatty Island here on Saturday.

The Chief Minister said that Kochi was among the most popular of Indian cities, thanks mainly to tourism, the serene islands around it and the backwaters. “The marina will boost Kochi’s tourism potential by providing a resting ground for sailors who come from across the oceans. The guests will also have the opportunity to explore Kerala’s tourism locales,” he said.

Lauding the KTDC for taking up the project, he said the agency had performed considerably well during the past two years. Mr. Achuthanandan said the tourism potential of the State was yet to be fully tapped despite it having a vast coastline, numerous backwaters, 44 rivers and hill stations. “The Kovalam-Neeleswaram inland waterway will be readied in three years, boosting the State’s tourism prospects,” he said.

Thirty yachts can be berthed in the initial phase of the Rs.8.25-crore marina project which will be completed in a year. The Centre has sanctioned Rs.4 crore for the first phase. Ultimately, there will be docking, refuelling and repair facilities for 50 yachts. There will also be a marina house and recreation centre. The marina will be built by the KTDC’s engineering wing and Kerala Industrial and Technical Consultancy Organisation (KITCO).