Alappuzha: The Kerala State Water Transport Department’s new tourism initiative, the 'Kuttanad Safari' package, is expected to launch within a month. Officials from project sponsor Indian Oil Corporation recently inspected Pathiramanal Island to finalise approvals, and construction of an amphitheatre is likely to begin within two weeks of tendering for the next stage. 

The amphitheatre will be built using grass and bamboo. The project, originally slated to launch during the Onam season, was delayed due to technical clearances. Developed in partnership with the Muhamma gram panchayat, it will feature cultural programmes on Pathiramanal Island in collaboration with the Indian People’s Theatre Association (IPTA).

The department’s new solar-powered cruise vessel, Soura-1, will be deployed for the safari. The daily trip will depart from Alappuzha boat jetty at 10 am and return by 5 pm. Passengers will be served breakfast at Azhikkal Canal, introduced to the Chundanvallam (snake boat) at C Block, and provided lunch at a toddy shop on the route to R Block.

Traditional art performances will be staged on Pathiramanal, where tourists will also be able to purchase local products from floating shops. The initiative will be linked with KSRTC services to promote package tourism.