The 80-year-old paddle steamer ‘Bhopal’ that has been renovated for commercial operation is expected to set sail on the Hooghly on Panchami, September 30.
A Union minister is likely to be present at the inaugural function. “During the inauguration, guests will be taken around the gallery, engine room and the museum on board the ship. The renovation has been carried out by a private party that has added several artefacts to the ship,” said a source, adding that the vessel will anchor at Outram Jetty No. 2.
The renovation cost has been pegged at around Rs 6 crore.
The ship was built in 1942 in England’s Dumbarton Shipyard and, unlike modern ships, it has propellers on both sides and was used for inland trade and later as a passenger ship. Later, it was used as a training ship. The ship was also used for navigation and pulling other steamers and ships.
The ship’s engine has also been modified. Around 100 tourists will be accommodated for each trip. The ship will have a dining space, an auditorium and a museum. A special gallery will showcase port-related artefacts.
