The first water taxi service in Kerala was launched in backwaters of Alappuzha. The catamaran diesel-powered craft has seating capacity of 10 passengers. The backwaters of Alappuzha is a major tourist attraction in the state. This is the first in a series of four boats that the government is planning to introduce. This will promote tourism and also provide hassle-free travel facilities. The water taxi can also be used as a rescue vehicle during emergencies.