The Venice of the East has risen from the devastation caused by the August floods and is all set to host the annual Nehru Trophy Boat Race.
A record 81 boats, including 25 snakeboats, will make a splash to the accompaniment of rhythmic beats of Vanchipattu and beating of drums on Punnamada Lake on Saturday. The event is expected to give the much-needed impetus to the flood-ravaged backwater tourism sector and Kuttanad.
The 66th edition of the race, slated to be held on August 11, was postponed due to floods.
Alappuzha Subcollector Krishna Teja told The Hindu that this year’s event would be special in many ways. “We are going to organise the boat race by giving special emphasis to women, children, senior citizens and the differently abled. Special pavilions and arrangements have been made for them to enjoy the boat race. Besides, the entire event will be organised in an environment- friendly and socially acceptable manner,” Mr. Teja said.
Fund shortage
Mr. Teja, who is also the secretary of the Nehru Trophy Boat Race Society (NTBRS), said that for the first time in the history of the event, transgender people will be part of a team serving as volunteers. At least 10 transgenders will be deployed to implement the green protocol.
Even as competitive spirit grips the boat clubs and race buffs, several clubs participating in the race are facing shortage of funds following the deluge. Organisers said the prize money of the event would be increased. A decision has been taken to increase the maintenance grant and bonus by 10%. The NTBRS is expected to collect Rs60 lakh from ticket sales.
The heats of smaller boats will be held in the morning and the finals in the afternoon. The race will be inaugurated by Governor P. Sathasivam. Film actor Allu Arjun, members of Indian Super League team Kerala Blasters, Union Minister of State for Culture and Tourism K.J. Alphons, Finance Minister T.M. Thomas Isaac, Tourism Minister Kadakampally Surendran, Civil Supplies Minister P. Thilothaman, Public Works Minister G. Sudhakaran, Leader of the Opposition Ramesh Chennithala and others will attend the event.
A strong contingent of 2,000 policemen will be deployed in Alappuzha to provide security.
