Papikondalu boat tours to resume on Monday

Khammam: Boat excursions to the picturesque Papikondalu hills and Perantapalli are likely to resume from Monday, with operators expecting a surge in tourist arrivals during the Dasara holidays. The proposed resumption of services from Pochavaram ferry point in Polavaram district of Andhra Pradesh is expected to benefit tourists and pilgrims visiting Bhadrachalam, a major pilgrimage centre in the state.

Boat operators recently met Chinturu ITDA Project Officer Chittapalli Narendra Padal and submitted a representation seeking permission to restart the excursions. The officer responded positively to their request, the operators said, adding that they were preparing for the expected rush while prioritising passenger safety. Papikondalu, known for its scenic hills along the Godavari river, is a popular tourist destination attracting visitors from different parts of the country. Tourists visiting Bhadrachalam often combine the darshan of Lord Sri Sitaramachandra Swamy with a boat trip to the picturesque river valley.

With educational institutions declaring Dasara holidays, operators anticipate a rise in tourist arrivals. Lodges, guest houses, temple cottages, and other accommodation facilities in Bhadrachalam are also expected to witness increased occupancy.

The ticket prices are likely to remain unchanged at Rs 950 for adults and Rs 750 for children. The package includes breakfast, lunch, snacks and tea, according to the operators.

However, the anticipated rush has also renewed concerns over passenger capacity and ticket sales. During the previous season, tourists reportedly faced inconvenience after tickets were allegedly issued beyond the prescribed capacity of boats. Complaints were also raised over unauthorised agents collecting excess amounts.

Tourists have urged the operators to regulate ticket sales strictly in accordance with the permitted passenger capacity and prevent a recurrence of such incidents.

The resumption of the excursions is expected to provide a boost to tourism-related activities in the Bhadrachalam region during the festive season. The services are likely to begin on Monday, subject to the necessary permissions and safety arrangements.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

PV Satyanarayana

PV Satyanarayana[email protected]

P.V.Satyanarayana is a journalist with an experience of 20years. PV Satyanarayans has completed his post-graduation in MSc (Mathematics) from Allahabad University. Interested in writing *Feature Stories and political stories Hobbies: Reading Newspapers and listening to songs.

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