Kerala is a land with abundant water bodies. Backwater is a wonderful gift of nature to the God's Own country.

Ashtamudy and Vembanadu lake which completes the network of waterways not only provides natural beauty but inland navigation facilities also.

State Water Transport Department is the main agency who provides inland water transport facilities to the people residing in the water logged areas and to enjoy the everlasting memory of backwaters.

This inland Water Transport system consists of 1895 kms of waterways. This include navigable river, backwaters and man made cross canals. Most of these are in Travancore-Cochin region.

Of the 44 rivers in Kerala, the 41 west flowing rivers together with back waters and man made canals form the integral part of inland navigation system.

State Water Transport Department formed during 1968 with the objectives to provide Transport facilities to the people residing in the water logged areas at cheaper rates and Cargo transportation. Construction of roads, bridges and speedy transportation-roadways shortened the operation of the department to passenger transport only-in the backwaters and ferries. But in the world of speed and hurry the advantage of this pollution free, accident free and cheaper transport system beckons least preference.