Govt Gives Nod for Over Rs 3 cr for Valanchuzhy Tourism Project

PATHANAMTHITTA:
The state government has given administrative sanction for the first phase of Valanchuzhy Tourism Project in Pathanamthitta district at a cost of Rs 3,06,53,182 for implementing a slew of initiatives in tune with Kerala Responsible Tourism (RT) Mission’s RT model.

Situated on the banks of Achankovil river, Valanchuzhy is a picturesque village, which holds great potential to emerge as a sought-after tourism destination.

The Valanchuzhy Tourism Project is part of Kerala Tourism’s efforts to leverage the tourism potential of unexplored destinations. The first phase of the project will be completed in 18 months.

Kerala Tourism Director Sikha Surendran had submitted the proposal for the project that focuses on facelift of the village by creating basic infrastructure and other amenities.

Commenting on the project, Tourism Minister P. A. Mohamed Riyas said the policy of the Department of Tourism is to identify new destinations and develop them in a sustainable manner.

Riyas said possibilities of leisure tourism will be harnessed as part of the Valanchuzhy Tourism Project and such initiatives will help popularising tourism in state.

The project envisages activities adhering to State RT Mission’s eco-friendly initiatives, besides creating basic infrastructure facilities by keeping the locality’s cultural and traditional heritage intact. It also aims to encourage indigenous entrepreneurs and scale up their ventures so as to benefit the local community at large.

The first phase works include construction of entrance plaza at a cost of Rs 21,92,066.01, gateway structure (Rs 5,14,348.48), walkway (Rs 1,66,92,941.62), restroom complex (Rs 14,03,715.43), food kiosk (Rs 8,99,965.25), shop (Rs 4,54,333.98), landscaping (Rs 5,65,369.45), waste disposal unit (Rs 1,50,000), waste bin (Rs 40,000), drinking water kiosk (Rs 30,000), signage (Rs 60,000), plumbing works (Rs 2,54,453.43), electrical works (Rs 4,92,631.09), and horticulture (Rs 5,28,000).