KOCHI: Seems like Kochi is showing the way to other maritime cities in the country. The successful implementation of Kochi Marina project has prompted the state government to set up similar facilities in other coastal towns in the state.A proposal to set up marinas in Alappuzha and Kodungallur will be presented at ‘Emerging Kerala’, the investors’ meet to be held this year.The implementation of Kochi Marina, the first and only one in the country, has already attracted other maritime states with their officials paying a visit to the Kochi Marina to study it. “As part of the efforts to make maximum utilisation of state’s coastline, the state government has prepared a project to develop minor ports. But in towns like Alappuzha and Kodungallur, there is a huge potential for tourism which has prompted the government to think of setting up a marina in these places,” Minister for Ports K Babu told Express.He added that proposals for the development of minor ports were also being prepared and will be presented at ‘Emerging Kerala’. The Kochi Marina was set up by the Kerala Tourism Development Corporation(KTDC) under the guidance of KITCO. It can accommodate 34 yachts at a time. In the second phase, the capacity of the Marina will be enhanced so as to accommodate 50 yachts at a time. The Marina was constructed at a cost of `8.21 crore, of which `4 crore was sponsored by the Centre. Constructed by Sharjah-based Gulf Marinas, the Kochi Marina is being operated by Mumbai-based Ocean Blue on a three-year contract with the KTDC. However, the three-storied Marina House, which has 24 deluxe rooms, including four suite rooms, a recreation centre and cafeteria, is under the direct management of the KTDC. The Kochi Marina also has facilities to repair yachts and fill fuel, recreational facilities such as golf course, swimming pool and spa, health club, restaurant and beer parlour.
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