The Hindu : Kerala News : Boating can make it doubly attractive

Online edition of India's National Newspaper
Saturday, Dec 22, 2007
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Kerala

Kerala

Boating can make it doubly attractive

K.A. Martin

Photo: H. Vibhu

SCENIC SETTINGS: Bhoothathankettu draws busloads of visitors daily, especially on holidays. —

KOTHAMANGALAM: The Periyar and the ominously still forests converge at Bhoothathankettu, creating an irresistible atmosphere and unforgettable scenery for visitors who throng the spot in large numbers.

It draws hundreds of people daily, especially on holidays when busloads of them arrive, says Stephen James, secretary of Bhoothathankettu Eco-Tourism Development Society.

The biggest draw is the lake extending from the Bhoothathankettu dam. Since boating has been banned on the lake for safety reasons in the wake of the Thattekkad boat tragedy, tourists are allowed only to use the pedal boats, strictly under the supervision of the guards. They are told to wear lifejackets strictly, Mr. James says.

Boating facilities have been leased by the District Tourism Promotion Council to the society, a voluntary, registered body of local people.

Considering its potential to draw visitors, Bhothathankettu has been named a major tourism centre. This is expected to speed up development and bring in funds for the works. For now, however, what Bhoothathankettu looks forward is an initiative from the State government to reintroduce full-fledged boating. Establishment of a police post will help bring better order. If that happens, operations of boats, mostly by private players, can be supervised.

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