Odisha Govt To Introduce Solar-Powered Boats In Chilika Soon

Bhubaneswar: In order to streamline boat services in waterways, the Odisha government plans to introduce solar powered boats on experimental basis in Chilika lake soon.

The government plans to replace the mechanised boats in use in rivers, lakes, sea and water bodies with solar powered boats for transportation of passengers as well as goods. It aims at reducing environmental pollution and transport cost of water communication.

The solar powered boats will be introduced on pilot basis in Chilika lakh for 3 months, said Usha Padhee, secretary, Commerce and Transport department. It is expected to bring down the transport cost of mechanised boats by Rs 7 lakh per annum. If the pilot project becomes successful, it will be extended to other waterways in the state, she added.

The secretary further said the Odisha Boat Regulations would be changed after 19 years. New bylaws will be brought for the waterways in the state in 2 months. It will be prepared in the line of Central laws.

The government is holding discussion with all stakeholders including boat owners, manufacturers, water authorities and police-makers regarding formulation of the bylaws.

As per the new regulations, only one type of boats will ply in the waterways across the state. The design of this boat has already been prepared with application of latest technology, said the secretary. These boats can transport passengers as well as goods in rivers, lakes and sea, she added.