The Hindu : Tamil Nadu / Chennai News : Cycle tourism goes down well

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Saturday, Jul 19, 2008
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Tamil Nadu

Tamil Nadu - Chennai

Cycle tourism goes down well

T.S. Shankar

CHENNAI: While the Tamil Nadu Tourism Development Corporation (TTDC) is in the process of extending the Tourist Friendly Autorickshaw scheme in Kanyakumari, the endeavour to use various modes of transportation as “vehicles of tourism” has become an instant hit among tourists.

The cycle tourism introduced at the beach resort complex at Mamallapuram, Kodaikanal, Yercaud and Kanyakumari, has not only become a money spinner for the corporation but also given a new impetus to its eco-friendly initiatives.

The Commissioner of Tourism and Managing Director of TTDC, M. Rajaram, told The Hindu that over 100 bi-cycles given by TI Cycles to the corporation under a revenue-sharing arrangement had become the most sought-after transportation at a time when the fuel prices had skyrocketed.

The bicycles are available for hire for one hour, half-day and full day arrangement for visitors.

The interesting aspect is that bicycles to suit all ages are made available. “The TTDC will soon introduce this concept at Udhagamandalm,” Mr.Rajaram said adding that within a week from July 7, a total of over Rs.70,000 was earned of which the corporation’s share was 20 per cent.

Nineteen bicycles were given to the beach resort complex at Mamallapuram, the boat house at Kodaikanal has got 24 and Yercaud and Kanyakumari a total of 39, Mr. Rajaram said and added that the bi-cycles had become easy mode of transportation for tourists and also given them flexibility to have a better view of tourist centres.

The State Tourism and Culture Department Secretary, V. Irai Anbu, and Mr. Rajaram recently launched the concept of cycle tourism at Mamallapuram.

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