Greater Cochin Development Authority(GIDA) is all set to construct a state-of-the-art  terminal  for tourist and ferry boats in Kochi. Thegeneral council of GIDA, which will be presided over by chief minister Oommen Chandy on Thursday, is likely to sanction this proposal. 

The general council has already approved the proposal to start boat services for tourists and residents of Goshree islands. The terminal will be constructed on GIDA's land on Chathyath-Goshree Road. A draft of the Rs 6.6 crore project has been prepared, officials said. Procedures for purchasing a double-decker boat have been completed, officials said. 

As per the plan, lower deck will be for local passengers, while upper deck is reserved for tourists. There will be 10 to 15 seats in the upper deck which can be availed by locals for a higher rate, sources said. 

The state government has already allotted Rs 2 crore for purchasing the boat. The terminal can be used by the private boat operators as well and will house act as ferry service office, GIDA office and a tourist facilitation centre.