Bhubaneswar: With an aim to streamline boat services in waterways, the Odisha Government is considering to introduce solar powered boats on experimental basis in Chilika lake soon.
The solar powered boats will be rolled out on pilot basis in Chilika lakh for 3 months, informed Principal Secretary of Commerce and Transport Department Usha Padhee.
The move will ensure to reduce the transport cost of mechanized boats by Rs 7 lakh per annum. If the pilot project becomes successful, it will be extended to other waterways in the state, Padhee said.
The State Government has plans to replace the mechanized boats in use in rivers, lakes, sea and water bodies with solar powered boats for transportation of passengers as well as goods.