Kochi, Sunday 25 April 2010: Defence Minister A. K. Antony has said that, this is an ideal time to ensure that Kerala gets its share of development projects, since many Keralites occupy high positions at the Centre.

Inaugurating India’s first marina on the eastern side of the KTDC-owned Bolghatty Palace Hotel. Defence Minister said that the State’s tourism and allied sectors can fare even better if the Government ensured good and wide roads, other basic infrastructure and scientific garbage treatment.

“The State Government and local bodies must work together so that the State wears a new look.” He lauded efforts made by the KTDC to ensure timely completion of the 34-berth marina and the adjacent marina house.

In his presidential address, Tourism Minister Kodiyeri Balakrishnan said that the marina would be the new gateway for Kerala Tourism. “It would attract many more seafarers who have been coming to Kochi in yachts for the past many years.

Mumbai-based Ocean Blue would operate the marina for the first three years, while the marina house would be operated by the KTDC. They together cost Rs 8 crore. The marina house has suites, deluxe rooms, multi-cuisine restaurant, health club that would be open to members of the public too.