Pleasure Boating Debuts at Vedamirtha Lake, Adding Spark to Vedaranyam Tourism The serene Vedamirtha Lake in Vedaranyam turned festive on Saturday as School Education Minister Anbil Mahesh Poyyamozhi inaugurated a new pleasure boating service, introduced by the Vedaranyam Municipality in collaboration with the district administration. The facility, launched in the presence of District Collector P. Akash and Tamil Nadu Fisheries Development Corporation chairman N. Gowthaman, aims to provide a fresh recreational outlet for residents while enhancing the experience of tourists visiting the Kodiyakkarai Bird Sanctuary. Currently approved for a one-year operation, the service features a fleet of six boats on the 15-acre lake, including two double water cycles, two single water cycles, and two duck-shaped family boats that can seat four to five people. Operated by MTR Marine Sales and Service through a tender process, the initiative ensures safety through certified lifeguards, BIS-approved equipment, and mandatory life jackets. Highlighting a unique feature, operator T. Dinesh Prabu said the water cycles are a first of their kind in Tamil Nadu’s public boating spaces. Equipped with both a gearbox and propeller, they offer a smoother pedalling experience compared to traditional boats. Municipal officials emphasized that all costs, staffing, and safety responsibilities lie with the operator, who will also share 20% of the revenue with the municipality. Part of a larger eco-tourism plan for Nagapattinam district, similar boating services are set to launch soon at Thamarai Kulam in Nagapattinam, while Velankanni is preparing to host water sports activities to boost tourism further.
