Kerala's Vypeen Beach Corridor Project Officially Launches with First Phase
Kochi: The scenic coastline of Ernakulam district in Kerala is set for a significant transformation as the long-awaited Vypeen Beach Corridor project has officially commenced construction. Tourism Minister Mohamed Riyas inaugurated the first phase of this ambitious initiative on Wednesday, marking a pivotal shift from planning to implementation.
Focus on Three Iconic Beaches in Initial Stage
The initial phase, with a budget of Rs 2.98 crore, will concentrate on upgrading three prominent beach destinations: Cherai, Munambam, and Kuzhuppilly. These locations were strategically selected to serve as the foundation for the corridor, offering a diverse range of experiences including adventure, relaxation, and family-oriented amenities.
"The nine beaches along the Vypeen coast hold immense potential for expanding tourism activities, where the district is already a leader. Developing the Kuzhuppilly-Cherai-Munambam corridor aims to provide tourists with an unforgettable experience through quality amenities and services," stated Riyas during the launch event held at Cherai Beach.
Overcoming Delays and Emphasizing Sustainability
The project, initially approved in 2017, has faced numerous obstacles, including delays in obtaining coastal regulation zone (CRZ) clearances and logistical challenges. Lijo Joseph, Secretary of the District Tourism Promotion Council (DTPC), highlighted the renewed focus.
"While we initially identified nine beaches, the first phase covering the three beaches is now being implemented. Our goal is to transform the entire Vypeen coast into a vibrant tourist hub by upgrading infrastructure and creating visitor-friendly facilities," Joseph explained.
To comply with stringent CRZ norms, the project will prioritize low-impact construction, avoiding heavy concrete structures in favor of prefabricated and eco-friendly materials. This approach aims to minimize environmental disruption while enhancing the coastal landscape.
Infrastructure and Lifestyle Enhancements
Originally, the government allocated Rs 4 crore for developing the beach corridor, which spans approximately 26 kilometers from Vypeen to Cherai, encompassing both large and small beaches. With the current administrative sanction of Rs 2.98 crore, the project is progressing with tangible improvements.
Beyond basic infrastructure such as interlocking tiles, snack bars, and renovated restrooms, the DTPC is introducing lifestyle activities to enrich the visitor experience. Following a successful trial at Cherai Beach, horse riding will be available across all three beaches, adding a recreational element to the scenic settings.
Boosting Tourism Traffic and Economic Impact
The Kerala tourism department aims to elevate the region's appeal by converting modest local visitor numbers into a steady influx of both domestic and international tourists. Joseph emphasized that developing these coastal beaches is crucial for positioning Kerala as a premier destination.
"Through this project, we aspire to transform the entire Vypeen coast stretch into a vibrant tourist hub. The plan focuses on upgrading infrastructure and creating visitor-friendly facilities to appeal to a broad audience," he added, underscoring the economic and cultural benefits expected from the corridor's completion.
The Vypeen Beach Corridor project represents a significant step forward in Kerala's tourism strategy, blending sustainable development with enhanced visitor experiences to showcase the state's natural coastal beauty.
