KOCHI: Tourism entrepreneurs in Fort Kochi are optimistic about a good turnout this season starting from November 1 and expect better business than last year. Projects like Green Carpet and the active involvement of stakeholders will help in cleaning and maintaining destinations. “After experiencing a slump in the last two years, due to the new liquor policy and other restrictions, tour operators expect better business this year, if weather conditions remain favourable. Homestays and hotels have already received several bookings, which is an encouraging trend,” said M.P Sivadathan, director of Kerala State Homestay and Tourism Association (Kerala HATS).
The period between November and February is considered as the peak season for tourism in the state. During this period, more than 85 per cent of hotel rooms and homestays are occupied in Kochi. “Cleaning and other infrastructure development initiatives as part of Green Carpet programmes have started in 10 select destinations in the district on October 1. The couple of projects proposed for Fort Kochi tourism development will be taken up as part of the initiative. Clean and well maintained toilets, roads, proper waste management, evacuation of illegal encroachers from the area and safety of tourists will be undertaken as part of the programme,” he added.
Top officials including the tourism director and deputy director have extended all support and called for the active participation of stakeholders. During the last two years, the tourism sector witnessed a decline in business, especially MICE (Meetings, incentives, conferencing, exhibitions) tourism consequent to restrictions on liquor sales. “However, this year we are expecting a good turnover because of many reasons including the positive approach of the state government and top tourism officials,” said a tourism operator in Fort Kochi.
