Excitement Builds for 69th Nehru Trophy Boat Race: Preliminary Races from 11 am, Final at 4 pm

The 69th Nehru Trophy Boat Race is set to captivate spectators today. This year’s event features the participation of 72 pleasure boats, including 19 impressive chundan boats, in the scenic waters of Punnamadakayal.

The boat race is scheduled to commence later in the afternoon. Preliminary races for smaller boats, except chundan boats, are slated to begin at 11 am. The esteemed presence of Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan is anticipated as he hoists the flag at 2 pm, marking the inauguration. The event will also be graced by the attendance of five ministers and the Chief Justice of the High Court.

In a departure from recent tradition, the Nehru Trophy Boat Race returns to its customary slot on the second Saturday of August, aligning with the tourism calendar. Thousands of eager onlookers are expected to converge in Alappuzha today to witness the thrilling boat race. Alappuzha District Collector Haritha V. has assured stringent security measures, alongside inputs from Kumar and District Police Chief Chaitra Teresa John.