Idukki District Administration Launches Safety Crackdown on Unapproved Adventure Tourism Centers
The Idukki district administration has initiated urgent action following a startling government report that revealed 21 out of the 25 adventure tourism centers operating in the picturesque hill district lack even basic panchayat-level approval. This regulatory gap has raised serious safety concerns, prompting the formation of a special committee to scrutinize these establishments.
Safety Investigation Triggered by Tourist Incident
The district administration's probe was catalyzed by a concerning incident last November at a newly opened sky dining facility in Anachal, Munnar. Five tourists and a service staff member were trapped for one-and-a-half hours, highlighting potential safety deficiencies. This event underscored the urgent need for comprehensive oversight of the rapidly expanding adventure tourism sector in Idukki.
Special Committee Formed to Assess Legal and Safety Compliance
District Collector Dineshan Cheruvat has constituted a high-level special committee to examine the safety systems and legal documentation of all adventure tourism centers. The committee includes key officials such as the disaster management authority deputy collector, a Public Works Department executive engineer, the tourism deputy director, and the District Tourism Promotion Council secretary. Their mandate is to conduct thorough inspections and provide actionable recommendations.
"Action will be taken based on the committee's report," stated Collector Cheruvat, emphasizing the administration's commitment to ensuring tourist safety and regulatory compliance.
Widespread Regulatory Deficiencies Uncovered
The investigation has uncovered significant approval gaps across multiple popular attractions:
- Vagamon Adventure Park: Activities including paragliding and zipline, operated under the District Tourism Promotion Council, reportedly lack mandatory approvals.
- Anachal Zipline in Eetti City: This attraction has only obtained clearance from the tourism department, falling short of comprehensive regulatory requirements.
- Limited Compliance: Only select attractions—specifically the hot air balloon, adventure park, and rollercoaster at Chunakkal—have secured approval from the Kerala Adventure Tourism Promotion Council.
Rapid Tourism Expansion Without Proper Oversight
Over the past two years, numerous adventure tourism centers have emerged across Idukki district, capitalizing on the region's natural beauty and growing tourist interest. Hundreds of visitors frequent these destinations daily, participating in activities ranging from ziplining to paragliding. However, this rapid expansion appears to have outpaced regulatory oversight, creating potential safety hazards.
The special committee's findings are expected to shape future tourism policy and enforcement measures in Idukki, potentially affecting operations at numerous centers that have become popular tourist draws without proper authorization.
