Eco-friendly boating at Mattupetty

Giji K. Raman,  IDUKKI,  
The Hindu, March 21, 2016

Boating in Mattupetty lake in Munnar will soon be eco-friendly, with wildlife being least disturbed.

As part of its efforts to develop responsible tourism in Munnar, the Hydel Tourism Centre has purchased a solar-powered boat, which will be a marked change from kerosene-powered boats and petrol speed boats.

Kerosene-run boats

Kerosene-powered boats have been the reason behind the pollution of the water body, even leading to occasional fish-kills, not to mention the ecological and environmental threats they pose. In addition, wild animals seldom used to drink water from the lake during summer seasons, thanks to contamination.

Moreover, the noise produced by petrol speed boats used to disturb wild animals.

The twin objectives of the solar-powered boat are ending noise pollution and reducing cost of operation.

Meanwhile, an official of the Hydel Tourism Centre said solar-powered boats are aimed at ensuring eco-friendly travel for tourists in the lake at the lowest cost possible.

The boat that can be operated for up to four hours once the solar panel is charged, can accommodate 10 passengers.

Wild animals

Once, green boats are fully operational, wild animals will come to the dam area for water and more sightings of them will be possible, officials hope.