Houseboats in Kerala to be converted into isolation wards for Coronavirus

The famous houseboats of Alleppey, the big charm for travellers from across the world, would soon be converted into isolation wards for Coronavirus if the need arises. The same was revealed by District Collector M Anjana. She revealed that while they have enough facilities and support for now, houseboats that also have a number of beds would be utilised in case of a medical emergency if there is a need.

The houseboats have been in the docks since there is no tourism activity in the region, and can thus be put to use. It was revealed that the houseboats can be clustered at one or two spots if they have to be turned into COVID-19 isolation wards. Work on the same has already started and the same was revealed by State Public Works Department Minister G Sudhakaran.
Currently, preparations are being done to build a minimum of 2000 isolation wards in the houseboats at Alleppey. The place is home to 700 licensed houseboats; Mr Sudhakaran has added that houseboat owners have accepted the proposal and the wards will be ready by April-end to be put to use as isolation wards if needed. Some of these houseboats also offer luxury lodging and are perfect to be used as isolation wards.

The state of Kerala has 387 cases, with 3 deaths and 211 people cured. It is expected that Kerala might see a number of expats returning home, and preparations need to be made if the number of cases rise. Only the UAE has 3 million Indians, out of which 1/3rd are from Kerala. Thus, the state is gearing up and preparing for any contingencies whatsoever.
It has to be appreciated that the houseboats also came to rescue in the massive 2018 floods, and helped in evacuating 30000 stranded people.