Uncertainty surrounds Nehru Trophy boat race as decision pending

Alappuzha: The date for the Nehru Trophy boat race remains unclear, with no resolution reached even as of Monday. Collector Alex Varghese indicated that the Nehru Trophy Boat Race (NTBR) Society will hold a meeting within the next three weeks to decide on the event. The Collector's response followed a request from the ‘Vallam Kali’ committee urging the organisation of the boat race.

The primary concern discussed was the lack of a confirmed date, as preparations for the festival typically require at least two weeks. The Collector mentioned that a response from the NTBR Society is expected within three weeks. The Chairman of the NTBR Society is also the Collector.

The boat race, originally scheduled for August 10, was postponed due to the Wayanad disaster. Nearly three weeks have passed without a new date being announced. Meanwhile, the government’s allocation of Rs 2.45 crore for the Beypore Water Festival has stirred controversy. Minister PA Mohamed Riyas has stated that if the Nehru Trophy is confirmed, the government will provide support including Rs 1 crore.

The organisers have requested that a date for the competition be announced this month, the decision to cancel the Champions Boat League be reversed, and the grant for the water festival be increased to Rs 2.5 crore. These demands were presented to the Collector by the organisers.

Demand for organising boat races during Onam season 

There is a push to hold the event this month, as it aligns with Onam and allows for easier training due to other boat races taking place. Delaying the event could incur significant costs to re-establish camps, with various clubs already facing losses amounting to Rs 5 crore.

The request was submitted by Vallam Kali Protection Committee leaders, including Joshi Kavalam, Sudhi Abraham, Mons Kariyampallil Champakulam, Aryamol Thomas, Prajeeth Puthanveettil, Jagesh Veeyapuram, Preeti Chacko, and Ashokan Pallathuruthy.

Former Minister G. Sudhakaran has expressed hope that the NTBR Society will make a favourable decision regarding the water festival, as posted on social media.

Protests and public gatherings

In the absence of a confirmed date, the ‘Vallam Kali’ committee will stage a sit-in protest at Punnamada on Thursday at 3 PM. A public gathering will be held on Wednesday from 9 AM to 1 PM at Mankombu, led by Kodikunnil Suresh.

Celebration of the Nehru Trophy

MLA P.P. Chittaranjan has posted on social media that the Nehru Trophy Water Festival is not just a celebration but an integral part of the Kuttanad people's identity. He assured that the boat race would be conducted as a grand celebration.