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Our Bureau

Kochi , Sept. 30

ARIES Marine and Engineering Services, Sharjah, has introduced an eco-friendly solar-powered houseboat - BOTEL — in the India International Boat Show 2005 here on Friday.

Considered as an alternative to the traditional houseboats, BOTEL (Backwater Operated Tourist Entertainment Launch) is a scientifically designed unsinkable vessel, which will be a benchmark in the boating world as far as the safety features are concerned, Mr Sohan Roy, Managing Director of Aries Marine and Engineering Services said.

Constructed at a cost of Rs 50 lakh, BOTEL will be a trend-setter in the medical tourism field as it has convenient rooms to provide ayurvedic treatment to guests.

The hull of the vessel is fitted with stabilising keels to prevent undesired rolling in high waters. The vessel has passages at the sides and to upper decks, toilets furnished with European finish.

BOTELS are the practical solutions for the unlimited pollution created by the houseboats, leading to environmental problems affecting the eco system, he said. Instead of discharging the sewage to the backwater directly, the vessel has a sewage treatment plant for its collection and treatment.

The engines and steering system of the vessel are remotely located so as to ensure maximum comfort to the passengers. The conference-cum-dining room can accommodate 50 persons on the upper deck. Bilge water separator is also there in the boat to separate oily water from the engine room. The boat has also a garbage management system to store and dispose the food waste and plastic. It draws power from the solar panel fitted on the top of the boat.

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