Alappuzha – Rahul Gandhi felt the excitement of the oars going up and down on the paddy field of Punnamada lake. As part of the Bharat Jodo Yatra, Rahul Gandhi visited the Alappuzha district to get a closer look at the beauty of Vallakali. He joined the rowers in the height of energy, which was joined by clapping, shouting and chanting. The team members welcomed Rahul Gandhi to the boat with shouts. After sharing with the houseboat operators about the challenges and solutions facing Kerala tourism, Rahul Gandhi came to paddle the chundan boat.
Three chundan boats namely Naduvilparamban, Anari and Vallakulangara participated in the boating competition. In this, Rahul Gandhi rowed in the middle of the river and came first. AICC General Secretary K.C. Venugopal, who is accompanying Rahul Gandhi in the Padayatra, came second in the Anarivallam. Valakulangara also finished just behind. A close fight took place between Naduvileparampan and Anari controlled by Rahul Gandhi and KC Venugopal. Rahul Gandhi rowed Naduparamban Chundanvallam, which was one row away, defeated Anari rowed by KC Venugopal. Rahul Gandhi returned after sharing joy with the winners and giving gifts of love to the boatmen who participated in the competition.
Rahul reached Punnamadakayal after his morning walk. After walking as part of a 13 km padayatra from Punnapra Aravukad, Rahul Gandhi was a part of the Chundanvallam game without even a trace of fatigue. The journey was by houseboat from Alappuzha finishing point around 11 am. For more than four hours, Rahul Gandhi traveled around Punnamadakayal. Rahul and his team moved forward along the backwater and reached near the Chavara Church. On the way back, met with representatives of various organizations related to the tourism sector. She briefed him on the challenges facing the tourism sector in the state.
Rahul said that the tourism sector of Kerala should become the pride of the country and the world. Should be able to attract more foreigners to the state. There should be innovative perspectives in the field. The meeting ended with an assurance that necessary interventions will be made within the Parliament to help the sector following post-Covid issues.
AICC General Secretary KC Venugopal, Opposition Leader VD Satheesan, Bharat Jodo State Coordinator Kodikunvil Suresh MP and AICC Secretary PC Vishnunath MLA were present.
English Summary: Bharat Jodo: Rahul Gandhi visits Alappuzha Punnamada Kayal