Use twin engine boats on Vypeen-Fort Kochi route

Research report on the Fort Kochi boat tragedy by Extra Director General of Law enforcement K. Padmakumar has reiterated the call for replacing the present boats plying the Vypeen-Fort Kochi route with double engine boats.

The statement, prepared after due discussion with various stake holders, such as technical experts and anglers, stipulates the use of twin motor boats for plying the road, which usually witnesses strong power due to the regular high as well as low tide activity.

“Chances of single engine vessels drifting towards the sea are quite likely in case of an engine failing. The twin engine ships, however , are spared using this as they can be operated even though one engine fails, ” the report says.

This further prefers boats which fall in the catamaran or even roll in-roll out group for s the route because they can withstand tidal action and strong winds.

Concerning the movement of tourist watercraft, the report suggests that these types of vessels should not be permitted to maneuver towards the West beyond the actual Vallarpadam terminal.

Similarly, visitor boats should be banned through plying before sunrise after sunset as the absence of lighting will hamper rescue procedures, in case of emergencies.

It also stipulates the installation of high-tech navigation gear on board the tourist ships, including GPS and other conversation system to pass on communications such as weather updates, unexpected emergency situations or about the motion of cargo vessels, and so on Besides, all tourist motorboats should strictly deploy 1 employee for look out responsibility, in addition to a licensed srank, the motor engine driver, two laskers, because suggested by the Kerala Away from the coast Vessels Rules, 2010.

Providers should limit the number of visitors standing at the upper terrace to one third of the capacity at any given stage of time. The boats are really likely to loose their balance if more passengers tend to be allowed on the upper veranda and capsize even in situation of a mild wind.

www.yuchaiie.com