Govt Sanctions Rs. 1 cr for Rippon-Aanadikkappu-Kanthanpara Road Repair

KALPETTA:
The state government has sanctioned Rs. one crore for the repair of the Rippon-Aanadikkappu-Kanthanpara road in Wayanad district, which will ensure smooth access to the scenic Kanthanpara Waterfalls, a major tourist attraction of the district.

The project will be implemented by the Department of Tourism. The budget for the works, which was initially put at ₹20 lakh, was increased as per the special directive of Tourism and Public Works Minister, P A Mohamed Riyas, considering the area’s potential to attract tourists in large numbers.

The Rippon-Aanadikkapu-Kanthanpara road connects the Rippon area to the popular Kanthanpara waterfalls.

This one-km stretch of road is in a poor condition now, rendered impassable for vehicles after it suffered damage due to heavy rains since early this year. Part of the stretch was temporarily restored by utilising the funds of the District Tourism Promotion Council (DTPC).

The road is used by locals as well as tourists to reach the tranquil Kanthanpara waterfalls site, lush with bamboo groves and natural forest. The Rippon area as a whole is known for its tea and coffee plantations.

“The Government accords top priority to schemes for improving the infrastructure in and around tourism sites, which includes good roads,” Shri Riyas, who also holds the Public Works portfolio said.

The Tourism Department has been pursuing a pro-active policy in supporting plans to tap into the tourism potential in the rural areas of Wayanad district, he added.