The tourism department has given green signal for a Rs.25 crore-project in the district for infrastructure development of tourism centres. The major chunk of the amount will for developing Thekkady with the focus on ecological sustainability. An amount of Rs. 20.4 crore has been earmarked for it.
The infrastructure development in Parunthumpara and Kuttikanam in Thekkady will be undertaken by the District Tourism Development Council. The projects for sustainable tourism development will be implemented with the cooperation of other departments. A watch tower will be constructed at Kuttikanam and more facilities will be provided for tourists in Parunthumpara.
Around Rs.10 crore will be spent for developing a parking area at Anavachal outside the Periyar Tiger Reserve. The project also proposes to introduce pollution-free, battery operated vehicles from Thekkady Junction to the boat landing station for carrying tourists.
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The Tourism Department will provide financial support to the KTDC and the Forest Department for purchasing two boats An amount of Rs.8 crore has been earmarked for renovating the KTDC hotels.