Revolutionizing UAE-India Travel: Passenger Ship Service on the Horizon
Indian expatriates in the UAE could soon have a more cost-effective and convenient means of traveling to their home country, thanks to the impending launch of a passenger ship service between the UAE and the southern Indian state of Kerala. This development aims to alleviate the financial burden on expats who often face exorbitant airline charges. With ticket fares expected to be as low as Dh442 (approximately Rs 10,000), the passenger ship service could become a game-changer in the world of travel.
A Cost-Effective Travel Solution
YA Rahim, President of the Indian Association Sharjah, revealed that the goal is to initiate the service before the school break in December, a peak travel season for expatriates. The idea is to provide a more affordable alternative to air travel during this period. The potential ticket cost of Dh442 is a fraction of what expats often pay for flights.
Awaiting Government Approval
To bring this ambitious project to life, delegates from the Kerala government plan to meet with central government ministers in India to secure approval. Rahim expressed confidence that the project will receive the green light, allowing for a trial run as early as November if all goes well.
Ticket Pricing and Categories
Ticket prices for the passenger ship service will range between Dh442 and Dh663 (approximately Rs 10,000 to Rs 15,000), with fares leaning towards the higher end during peak travel times. This pricing structure aims to cater to varying budgets.
Key Features of the Service
– Duration of Travel: The passenger ship will take approximately three days to complete its journey between the UAE and India, providing passengers with a unique and scenic travel experience.
– Capacity: The ship has the capacity to accommodate up to 1,250 passengers at a time, making it a viable option for a significant number of expatriates.
– Baggage Allowance: Passengers will be permitted to carry up to 200kg of luggage, allowing them to transport their belongings without excess baggage fees.
– Onboard Amenities: Planners of the service promise a wide variety of food options and entertainment to keep travelers comfortable and engaged throughout the voyage.
Destinations and Future Expansion
The passenger ship will initially sail to two destinations: Kochi and Beypore. Kochi is a prominent city in Kerala, boasting one of India’s largest ports. Beypore, located in Kozhikode, serves as another vital port on India’s southwestern coast. Additionally, there are plans to include a third destination, Vizhinjam, in the service. Vizhinjam is set to become Kerala’s largest container port upon its completion in December 2024.
Collaborative Efforts and Key Players
This ambitious project is a joint effort led by the Sharjah Indian Association, in collaboration with a private company, Ananthapuri Shipping and Logistics Private Limited. It has received support from the government of Kerala and the Non-Resident Keralites Affairs (NORKA), a department of the Kerala government dedicated to addressing the concerns of non-resident Keralites.
A Project on the Verge of Realization
The impetus for this passenger ship service stems from concerns raised by Kerala’s port minister, Ahammad Devarkovil, who accused airlines of taking advantage of non-resident Keralites during vacation seasons. With substantial support from influential entities, including the government, it is likely only a matter of time before this passenger ship service becomes a reality, offering Indian expatriates an affordable and accessible mode of travel between the UAE and Kerala.
The proposed passenger ship service stands to transform the landscape of travel for Indian expatriates in the UAE, offering them a cost-effective and comfortable means of reaching their homeland. With key players and government support backing the project, the service appears poised to become a viable and much-needed travel solution.
