Bhubaneswar: The Odisha government has decided to launch a mobile application book boats for hassle-free rides in Chilika Lake spread over Puri, Khurda and Ganjam districts.
The app will have a list of the licenced boats for the safety and convenience of tourists, who often complain about being fleeced by boat and taxi associations.
The Chilika Development Authority (CDA) is taking feedback from different boat associations operating at the lake in this regards. “Our purpose is to streamline boat movements and end the exploitation of tourists by some associations. Uniform pay traffic will be introduced depending on the distance and timing of the boat ride. Tourists can pay the booking fee online through the app,” a senior CDA official was quoted as saying by the Times of India.
Unlicensed boat owners have also been warned of legal action.
On Thursday, Puri Collector Balwant Singh stressed on mandatory registration and renewal of boats during a meeting with members of different boat associations of Satapada. “Associations were asked to ensure all safety measures, including lifebuoys, lifejackets, firefighting gadgets and first aid box are in place in boats. Fitness and regular maintenance of the boats should be accorded priority,” he told the daily.
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