CM launches Kochi Corporation’s third ro-ro vessel - The HinduUpdated - July 13, 2026 01:23 am IST - KOCHIChief Minister V.D. Satheesan hands over a symbolic free travel ticket to Kochi Mayor V.K. Minimol during the inauguration of Kochi Corporation’s new ro-ro ferry at Vypeen on July 12. | Photo Credit: THULASI KAKKATChief Minister V.D. Satheesan has urged women beneficiaries of the government’s free travel schemes to use the money they save through the rides to build their personal savings. He was inaugurating Sethusagar III, the Kochi Corporation’s third roll-on/roll-off (ro-ro) vessel, at the Vypeen ro-ro jetty on Sunday (July 12).Stressing the need to strengthen women’s financial independence, Mr. Satheesan said the government would take the initiative to launch a special ‘Pink Chitty’ through the Kerala State Financial Enterprises to help women channel the savings from free rides into regular investments.Women passengers wait to board a ro-ro ferry after the launch of the Kochi Corporation’s third ro-ro vessel on July 12. | Photo Credit: THULASI KAKKATLauding the Kochi Corporation’s decision to offer free travel for women on ro-ro services in line with the State government’s Priyadarshini free ride scheme on a section of KSRTC buses, the Chief Minister said such savings would boost women’s confidence and sense of dignity.He said the induction of Sethusagar III would strengthen Kochi’s public transport system and make travel between West Kochi and the city more convenient and modern.The Chief Minister announced that work to renovate Fort Kochi Beach would begin soon to enhance its tourism potential. He also highlighted the State government’s decision to sanction a 190-MLD water treatment project, which he said would provide a permanent solution to Kochi’s drinking water shortage.“Several major projects are being planned to transform Kochi into a world-class tourism destination. These include a state-of-the-art oceanarium, a film city, and an international-standard maritime museum. Once completed, the projects will help attract tourists from across the world,” he said.He added that the State government had submitted major proposals to the Union government aimed at significantly improving city’s public transport sector.Kochi Mayor V.K. Minimol presided over the function. MLAs Muhammed Shiyas, Tony Chammany, T.J. Vinod, and Deepak Joy, along with other key officials, attended the event.Published - July 12, 2026 08:21 pm ISTSign in to unlock member-only benefits!Access 10 free stories every monthSave stories to read laterAccess to comment on every storySign-up/manage your newsletter subscriptions with a single clickGet notified by email for early access to discounts & offers on our products${ ind + 1 } ${ device }Last active - ${ la }