This will be the nation’s inaugural visual display projected within a tunnel, utilizing advanced video mapping technology, as stated in an official announcement on Monday (February 23).
The Chilakoor Tunnel, upgraded as part of the initial phase of the Akkulam-Chettuva Waterway project, will be officially opened by Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan.
Spanning 280 km, the Akkulam-Chettuva Waterway forms a segment of the larger 616-km Kovalam-Bekal waterway initiative, marking a significant achievement in Kerala’s inland waterways enhancement, reinforcing the state’s status as a multi-modal logistics center and elevating its water-based tourism potential, as mentioned.
The tunnel’s renovation has been undertaken by Kerala Waterways Infrastructure Limited (KWIL), a joint venture involving the state government and Cochin International Airport Limited (CIAL).
CIAL will also introduce a light-and-sound integrated electric boat, allowing tourists to experience the visual wonders inside the tunnel, it added.
The show, powered by projection technology on the tunnel walls, has been crafted and executed for ₹4.5 crore.
The display will project a 3D video journey through Kerala’s stunning landscapes, key literary milestones, famous tourism spots, and rich cultural diversity.
A six-minute visual presentation centered on the life and teachings of Sree Narayana Guru, a forerunner of the social reform movement in Kerala, will be the main highlight, stated S Suhas, Director of KWIL.
Illustrated frames depicting Guru’s life have been created by students and faculty from RLV College of Music and Fine Arts in Thripunithura, Kochi, utilizing state-of-the-art technology to animate these depictions.
The boat ride and light-and-sound presentation will transform the picturesque Chilakoor Beach into an engaging destination, significantly enhancing water-based tourism in Kerala, according to Suhas.
The custom-designed 20-seater electric boat has been constructed by NavAlt Green Mobility, a startup based in Kochi.
The vessel includes four high-intensity laser projectors, top-tier onboard audio systems, and battery power, assuring a synchronized and environmentally-friendly visual experience.
KWIL is also planning to establish a beach park and boat jetty along the canal, while Kerala Hydel Tourism Centre will create a ticket counter for visitors.
Chilakoor Tunnel is an engineering wonder measuring 350 meters, designed to facilitate seamless inland navigation in the former princely state of Travancore.
The canal has been restored to navigable condition as part of the state government’s Inland Waterways development initiative, the announcement concluded.
