Kochi: Three companies, including Kozhikode-based Jamal Ventures Private Limited, have expressed interest in starting a low-cost passenger ship service from Kochi to the Gulf countries. The other two companies are based in Chennai and Mumbai. 

The interested companies had time until April 22, 2024, to submit their applications. The initial discussion about the passenger ship service was held in Kochi last month. 

N S Pillai, the Maritime Board Chairman, informed that a decision regarding travel time, fare, and port renovation would be taken after holding talks with company representatives in the coming days.

The project envisions an affordable travel experience for those visiting the Gulf countries and foreigners who come to Kerala for medical tourism.

Along with this, the modernization of ports, including Beypore and Azhikkal, is also under consideration. Currently, large ships cannot anchor in these ports.