KOLLAM: Kerala's development works will see a new milestone on the completion of the first phase of Kovalam-Bekal West Coast Canal. At first, the route will be for tourism. On the completion of the third phase in 2025, shipment of goods will be started. The 620-kilometre waterway connects 39 water bodies.

Tourism boating will have a houseboat, steel boat, and Kashmiri Shikkara boat. As the height of bridges will be raised after the second phase, taller boats will be available.

The development of Kollam-Kottappuram waterway which is also funded by the centre is now 95 per cent complete. About Rs 300 has been spent so far on the development.

As a trial, 400 tonnes of raw materials to Chavara KMML will be brought from Kochi next month through the waterway which is now brought in 40 tanker lorries.

On completion of this waterway, the cost for the transportation of goods will be substantially lower. Environmental pollution can be brought down along with the traffic congestion on roads.