Kerala is considering the launch of a passenger ship service that would connect the state to Dubai, UAE, offering thousands of Keralites in the Gulf region a convenient and cost-effective mode of travel. According to media reports, the proposal, put forth by Kerala’s Minister for Ports, Ahammed Devarkovil, has sparked excitement among the region’s labor force, who work in various GCC countries. This potential passenger ship service is seen as a response to the steep rise in flight charges during festivals and school vacations, which has been a burden on non-resident Malayalis.
Reportedly, the passenger ship is envisioned to carry up to 1,250 passengers and allow each traveller to bring up to 200 kg of luggage. Tickets are expected to cost approximately Dh442 (10-12 Thousand Rupees), making it an attractive option for many. However, experts in the shipping sector have expressed concerns about the project’s feasibility, citing factors such as cost, transit time, and a lack of infrastructure facilities.
Delegates from the Kerala government plan to meet with central government ministers to seek approval for the project. If approved, the passenger ship service could begin as early as December, with a trial run slated for November, as per reports. This ambitious initiative aims to address the challenges faced by non-resident Keralites and provide them with a more affordable and accessible means of travel between India and the UAE.
The voyage from Beypore in Kerala to Dubai spans approximately 1,879 nautical miles and would take around five days to complete. Critics argue that the extended travel time and associated costs may deter passengers, especially those coming for shorter vacations. The ship’s ability to compete with air travel, which offers faster transit times, remains a key concern.
Despite the challenges and doubts raised by experts, Kerala’s government and its partners are determined to explore the feasibility of this passenger ship service, which has the potential to significantly impact the travel options for Keralites working in the Gulf.