SOUTH
Tapping the immense potential of solar power, Kerala launched the country's first solar boat. Made at a cost of 1.85 crores 'Aditya' was pressed into a trial run at Aroor lake on Saturday.
According to Kerala State Water Transport Department (KSWTD) authorities, the 70-seater ferry is expected to bring down the fuel cost considerably and reduce pollution.
The boat is built by NavAlt, a collaboration between the French company AltEn and the Indian company, Navgathi.
It took two years for the company to design and built the 20 meters long, 7-metre wide boat.
The boat is capable of operating up to 5 to 6 hours and is also equipped with an alternative power system to meet emergencies. The ferry will also have a life cycle of 20 years.