Tourism News

Ernakulam DTPC plans it big for Cherai beach in next phase

The Minister for Tourism, Prof. K. V. Thomas inaugurated the renovated Cherai beach, which is widely perceived to bolster the tourist activities of the beach and the surrounding region. The inaugural function was presided over by the Minister for SC/ST Welfare and Youth Affairs Dr. M. A. Kuttappan. Tourism Secretary, Mr. T. Balakrishnan delivered the keynote address. The Director of Tourism, Mr. Alkesh Kumar Sharma and Mr. George Eden MP were the guests of honour. Others who spoke during the inaugural function include the District Collector and DTPC Chairman, Mr. Gyanesh Kumar, District Panchayat President Mr. K. B. Muhammadkutty Master, and the DTPC Secretary Mr. M. P. Rajan. According to the District Collector and DTPC Chairman, Mr. Gyanesh Kumar, the Ministry of Youth Affairs has granted Rs. 1.0 million for the beautification project and the amount will be used for the second phase of development activities. The DTPC is also holding talks with various hotels in the city that have three-star or higher status to include Cherai beach in their tour packages. About 1.0 to 1.5 million tourists are expected to visit the beach every year. The business generated is expected to spruce up the financial status of the Pallippuram panchayat where the beach is located. The 10.5-kilometre long beach features a children?s corner, walkway, speedboats, water scooters and parasailing on Saturdays and Sundays. Separate pay-and-use toilet facilities for men and women, pay-and-park facilities to accommodate 50 cars and 50 two-wheelers at a time, flood lights, several fire-proof fibre glass dust bins, 20 beach beds, 10 beach umbrellas, beach tables, and two kiosks, which will offer tea, coffee, cool drinks and snacks have been set up at the beach. Private agencies have been engaged to provide round-the-clock security.