Malappuram coastal tourism gets a fillip

The proposed tourism circuit based on major attractions along the coast of Malappuram has got a fillip with the inauguration of a beautification scheme at Ottumpuram beach near Tanur on Friday.

Minister for Tourism A.P. Anil Kumar, who inaugurated the scheme, and Tanur MLA Abdurahman Randathani, who presided, were apparently excited about the project. “It will make some of our beaches, particularly the Kettungal-Ottumpuram estuary, where the Poorapuzha empties itself into the Arabian Sea, more appealing,” they said.

A bridge currently being built across the estuary linking Ottumpuram with Kettungal is expected to change the face of Tanur. “We are in for a massive change. This beautiful locale will certainly attract local tourists in hordes,” said Mr. Randathani, explaining the relevance of the beautification scheme.

The bridge work has progressed well since Chief Minister Oommen Chandy laid its foundation last year. Dozens of people from neighbouring places come to both sides of the river mouth everyday not only to watch the bridge work but also to enjoy their evenings.

Realising the tourism potential of the place, the Tourism Department spent Rs. 70 lakh for beautification of the beach. As much as Rs. 1.40 crore has been sanctioned for the second phase of development, the inauguration of which took place on Friday.

Pavilions to enjoy sunset, toilets for men and women, utility shops, an amphitheatre, food courts and a promenade would be constructed in the current phase of development.

Mr. Randathani said that as much as Rs. 10 core was being spent for the beautification of Canolly Canal, which ends in the Poorapuzha, in Tanur segment. “It is going to give a fillip to the coastal tourism circuit involving such destinations as the Kadalundi Community Reserve, Chamravattom project, Padinjarekkara tourism project, Biyyam Canal, and Ottummal,” he said.

Mr. Randathani said that an international kayaking championship would be held soon in the Poorapuzha. “The Ottumpuram-Kettungal estuary would host the prestigious event,” he said.