On Sunday,July 12, Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan inaugurated the Sethusagar III,the third roll-on/roll-off (ro-ro) vessel of the Kochi Corporation, at the Vypeen ro-ro jetty. This initiative aims to enhance public transport in Kochi,providing a modern and convenient travel option between West Kochi and the city.
During the launch, Satheesan encouraged women beneficiaries of the government’s free travel schemes to utilize their savings from these rides to build personal savings . He emphasized importance of financial independence for women,announcing plans for special initiative called ‘Pink Chitty’ through Kerala State Financial Enterprises. This program is designed to help women invest the money they save from free rides into regular savings.
“Such savings will boost women’s confidence and sense of dignity,” Satheesan stated, highlighting the broader implications of free travel initiative. The program aligns with State government’s Priyadarshini free ride scheme, which also offers complimentary travel for women on certain KSRTC bus routes.
The Chief Minister also shared plans for upcoming projects aimed at transforming Kochi into a premier tourism destination. He announced that renovation work at Fort Kochi Beach would commence soon, enhancing its appeal to tourists. Additionally,he revealed a significant 190-MLD water treatment project,which aims to address the city’s drinking water shortages .
“Several major projects are being planned to transform Kochi into a world-class tourism destination,” he said, mentioning a state-of-the-art oceanarium, a film city, and an international-standard maritime museum. These developments are expected to attract tourists from around the globe.
Satheesan also noted that State government has submitted proposals to the Union government to significantly enhance the city’s public transport sector. The event was presided over by Kochi Mayor V.K . Minimol,with the attendance of MLAs Muhammed Shiyas, Tony Chammany,T.J. Vinod, and Deepak Joy, along with other key officials.
