KOCHI: Minimum ticket prices for the water transport department's passenger boats may be raised to Rs 10 from the current Rs 6. NATPAC has completed its study on the rate hike with the report set to be submitted to the government soon. The new rate is expected to be implemented once the Code of Conduct is finalized. In 2016, the minimum fare was set at Rs 6. On average, 27,000 people rely on boats daily.

The service is available in Kollam, Alappuzha, Kottayam, Ernakulam, Kannur and Kasaragod districts, with more services concentrated in Alappuzha. NATPAC officials conducted inspections in each district to determine the minimum rate, considering factors such as engine runtime during servicing, diesel costs and maintenance expenses.

Online ticketing services will also be introduced soon, with plans to switch to new ticket machines currently underway. An Android machine with 5G support will be procured for this purpose, with an allocation of one crore rupees. There are a total of 14 boat stations and 53 boats in operation.