Kozhikode: The Kadalundi panchayat has been trying to tap the tourism potential in the area after failing to receive nearly Rs 14.8 crore of central funds earmarked for the Kadalundi-Vallikkunnu Community Reserve (KVCR).
A six-feet 'Nature walkway' will be constructed with the support of the locals. The required land would be handed over to the panchayat committee led by president O. Bhakthavalsalan. The panchayat and the community reserve office-bearers are collecting the consent from the remaining families.
"There are 30 families living on the side of the Kadalundi river, where the 'Nature walkway' is planned. Except three, all of them have expressed their readiness to part with the land. Two others are also partially willing. We are holding talks with the rest of the families. The panchayat has already earmarked initial funds for the walkway. The rest can be raised through public participation," said Kadalundi panchayat president O. Bhakthavalsalan.
The 'Nature walkway' is planned from Kadalundi railway station towards the Kadalundikkadavu bridge, where visitors arrive in groups. On an average, 300 people daily visit the area, which has an estuary and mangroves, said KVCR founder chairman Anil Marathu. Once the walkway becomes a reality, the nearly one-km stretch can be used for sightseeing through the banks of the river.Though the reserve was recognised by the centre in October 2007, it is yet to receive the promised funds.
Though an increasing number of tourists come to watch the estuary and the migratory birds, there are no basic facilities like toilets for the visitors. "Adding to the worries are the public drinking under the bridge and the harassment of anti-social elements towards the visitors. The rush was huge for this Onam-Bakrid season," said Mr Marathu.
Currently, there is no proper road connecting the sanctuary with the main road and bridge and considering the environment sensitivity of the area, huge constructions are not possible.
