THIRUVANANTHAPURAM:
Giving a fillip to tourism activities in Kerala capital, State Tourism Minister Kadakampally Surendran inaugurated the second phase development projects at Akkulam Tourist Village, completed at a cost of Rs 9.34 crore.
Surendran also laid the foundation for the Rs 185.23-crore Akkulam Lake conservation project, to be funded by Kerala Infrastructure Investment Fund Board (KIIFB), on the occasion. The project is aimed at scientifically preserving the lake with the active participation of the local community.
In his inaugural address, Surendran said with the completion of all the projects Akkulam Tourist Village would become a major sought-after destination in the city.
“For Akkulam, the development project is a long-cherished dream. The children’s park and other facilities have been designed and executed attractively. The next stage is the completion of Akkulam Lake preservation works,” the Minister added.
In her welcome address, Rani George, Principal Secretary, Tourism, said the Tourism Department gave priority to the development of basic infrastructure facilities in tourism centres to attract visitors. “We were able to complete the development and renovation projects in tourism centres across the state within the time-frame set for them,” she added.
Presenting the report on the project, Tourism Director P Bala Kiran said Akkulam has immense possibility for tourism development and the department is aiming at implementing an overall development plan for the area in various phases.
Kumari Arya Rajendran, Mayor, Thiruvananthapuram, presided over the function.
The projects dedicated included musical fountain, artificial waterfall, bicycle track, cafeteria, office room and renovated swimming pool— all at a cost of Rs 4.84 crore, and the children’s park at a cost of Rs 4.5 crore.
Being the major attraction at the Village, the musical fountain, which offers a spectacular experience to the viewers, is one of the best in India considering the technology and aesthetic design. Executed by the Uralungal Labour Contract Cooperative Society (ULCCS) Ltd., the musical fountain provides a breathtaking visual experience about the rich and diverse culture of Kerala focusing on the theme ‘Unity in Diversity’. Its stunning effect is created by the application of DMX Technology. It gives the right feel of spatial dimensions and harmony of the elements—water, earth and air.
In addition to the Rs 9.34 projects, work on a flight simulator museum at a cost of Rs two crore is nearing completion at the locality.
The bicycle track is laid out at the hilltop adjacent to the park and seating facilities are also arranged at the track.
Krishna Teja, MD, KTDC; Kumari Athira L.S, Chairperson, Town Planning Standing Committee; and Shri Suresh Kumar. S, Councillor, Akkulam Ward, among others were present.
K. Rajkumar, Joint Director, Tourism, proposed a vote of thanks.
