After many rounds of speculations, cancellation rumours and discussions, the final date of this year's Nehru Trophy Boat Race (NTBR) has been confirmed. The event, held at the Punnamada Lake in Alappuzha, has been scheduled for September 28. The 70th edition of the event was initially planned for August 10 but was postponed in the wake of the Wayanad landslides in July. Around 74 boats, including 19 chundanvallams aka snakeboats had registered to participate in the nine categories of events in NTBR this year. The Nehru Trophy Boat Race Society (NTBRS) had earlier demanded September 28 as the new date for the race.
How to book tickets?
The online ticket booking facility for NTBR generally opens via its website around a month before the event. Spectators can also walk into the event to book the seats of their choice, as per availability. KSRTC depots and websites also give out tickets on an FCFS basis.
Facilities this year
A few months ago, it was announced that a luxury box would be introduced in the pavilion to watch the Nehru Trophy Boat Race. The ticket price for the Luxury Box was Rs 10,000 per head. Family tickets were Rs 25,000 (for three persons). According to organisers, a person can enjoy the boat race from the luxury box with all the latest comfort and amenities. Other options for spectators to watch the boat race are the Tourist Gold Nehru Pavilion (Rs 3000), Tourist Silver Nehru Pavilion (Rs 2500), Rose Corner (Rs 1500), Victory Lane Wooden Gallery (Rs 500), All View Wooden Gallery (Rs 300), Lake View Gold Wooden Gallery (Rs 200) and Lawn (Rs 100). Over two lakh spectators were expected earlier for the race, but the delay will likely affect the turnout.