The cantilever glass bridge at Wagamon in Idukki. | Photo Credit: JOMON PAMPAVALLEY
An executive meeting of the District Tourism Councildecided to promote public-private partnership (PPP) model tourism projects in Idukki. According to sources, the decision was made due to the government’s financial struggles, which posed a challenge for the tourism projects under the District Tourism Promotion Council (DTPC) in Idukki.
According to officials, the tourism council executive meeting decided to promote PPP-model tourism projects after the success of the cantilever glass bridge at Wagamon, which was built through a PPP model. The bridge opened to tourists in September 2023.
DTPC secretary Jitheesh Jose explained that the cantilever glass bridge changed the tourism prospects in Wagamon. “After the setting up of the glass bridge at Wagamon, the destination has emerged as one of the main tourism destinations in Idukki. The bridge was one of the best PPP model tourism projects in the State. After the success of the glass bridge project, the DTPC is receiving many enquiries to set up PPP model projects in various parts of the district,” said Mr. Jose.
According to officials, investors expressed their willingness to set up PPP model tourism projects in Idukki and Wayanad districts in the State. “Most investors preferred Idukki district toset up PPP projects,” said the official.
A tourism project at Aruvikuzhi, a children’s park at the Idukki Park, water adventure tourism activities at Sreenarayanapuram, a children’s park at Ramakkalmedu, and a walkway and a food street at Muthirapuzha are under the consideration of the DTPC, according to officials.
During the meeting, Water Resources Minister Roshy Augustineemphasised the need for a detailed tourism plan for Idukki district to attract domestic and international tourists.“Develop a mobile application to provide information to tourists and distribute uniforms to the staff in tourism centres,” said the Minister.
In the meeting, the DTPC secretary informed that the Peerumade eco-lodge was ready for inauguration. District Collector V. Vigneshwari, Devikulam MLA A. Raja, district panchayat president Rarichan Neeranakunnel, among others, attended the meeting.
Published – January 31, 2025 07:11 pm IST
