Lakshadweep Travel Made Easy: High-Speed Ferry Launches:The launch of the high-speed ferry 'Parali' represents a major breakthrough in cutting travel time between Lakshadweep and Mangaluru. This new service has reduced the sea journey by an impressive five hours, making the trip significantly faster. The inauguration took place on 10 May 2024.
Lakshadweep, the smallest Union Territory of India, has recently gained attention for its breathtaking beauty and emerging status as a tourist hotspot. Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Lakshadweep in January 2024 further highlighted the allure of this island paradise, sparking interest among Indians and raising concerns in neighboring Maldives.
Previously, traveling to Lakshadweep by sea took a lengthy 13 hours. However, the introduction of Parali, a high-speed ferry, has revolutionized this journey. In an experimental run, the Parali successfully transported 160 passengers from Lakshadweep to Mangalore's old port in just seven hours, cutting the travel time nearly in half. The administration is now considering making this high-speed service a regular offering.
Passengers aboard the Parali reported a smoother and more enjoyable experience compared to previous voyages on converted cargo vessels. Lakshadweep, with its 32 square kilometers of land spread across 36 islands and a 4200-square-kilometer lagoon, is a marine treasure trove.
The Lakshadweep Islands Tourism Development Authority (LITDA), established under the Central Tourism Ministry, conducted the trial runs and developed facilities at Kadmatt, the closest port of arrival for the islands.
There are, however, challenges to consider. The monsoon season could affect the safety and smoothness of the ferry service, and the environmental impact of increased coastal tourism is being closely monitored. Despite these potential obstacles, a regular ferry service between Mangalore and Kochi would not only boost tourism but also facilitate easier travel for Lakshadweep residents to the mainland.
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