Venkitesh Babu, born on the A-47 boat in Alappuzha 29 years ago, has realised a lifelong dream by joining the same vessel as a crew member.
Venkatesh Babu, a native of Perumpalam island in Alappuzha, has turned a rare twist of fate into reality. On Friday, he stepped aboard the Kerala State Water Transport Department’s A-47 boat — the very vessel where he was born 29 years ago — now joining as a crew member. His family accompanied him on his maiden voyage after he reported for duty at the Nedumudy station.
In the early hours of June 3, 1996, Shyla, wife of T.V. Babu, went into labour while onboard the A-47 boat, which provided a special night service for islanders in need of urgent hospital transfers. Within minutes, Venkatesh was born onboard, with the boat serving as his first cradle. Growing up, he heard the story of his extraordinary entry into the world, which fostered a lifelong emotional bond with the vessel.
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Over the years, Venkatesh nurtured a desire to work with the Water Transport Department. He earned multiple certifications — Boat Lascar, Syrang, Second Class Master, Engine Driver, First Class Engine Driver, and an MTT certificate — and gained experience working temporarily with the department, followed by a stint at Kochi Water Metro.
After clearing the PSC exam for the Boat Lascar post, fate intervened once again. Friends informed the department of his personal connection with the A-47, and the department’s MD, Shaji V. Nair, honoured his wish, posting him on the very boat that had been part of the first moments of his life.
On Friday morning, Venkatesh signed in before Nedumudi Station Master Manaf Khader, offered a traditional ‘dakshina’ to senior lascar C. Baiju, and boarded the A-47. His parents and brother were present to witness the historic moment. Today, the A-47 operates the Nedumudi-Alappuzha Super Express, a long way from its original Panavally-Poothotta route.
Venkatesh’s brother, Ganesh Babu, also works as a boat assistant with Water Metro, while his wife, Nebitha, serves as a Junior Health Inspector at the Perumbalam
The A-47’s longevity lies in its wooden construction. With proper annual maintenance and inspection, wooden boats can last for decades. Every three years, major repairs, including wood replacement, are carried out, followed by an official inspection and license renewal. This meticulous care has kept the A-47 operational for more than three decades, making it not only a vessel of transport but also a living symbol of Venkatesh’s extraordinary life journey.
Published: 15 Nov 2025, 12:02 pm IST
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