Wayanad to be made main tourism vacation spot: Mohamed Riyas

The district has huge tourism potential that does not have to be tapped yet, says Minister of Tourism

Public Works and Tourism Minister PA Mohamed Riyas said all possible steps are being taken to make Wayanad district a major tourist destination in the country.

Speaking to the media here on Friday after attending a meeting of elected officials and senior officials, Mr Riyas said Wayanad has enormous tourism potential but it has yet to be exploited.

A master plan will be drawn up for the comprehensive development of the mountain district’s tourism sector before the Onam vacation, Riya’s Purpose said.

“Although neighboring Sri Lanka attracted tourists from China and Japan, the state did not attract them for various reasons. The ancient monuments in the district will attract them and a study is underway for this purpose, ”said the minister.

Connectivity between all tourism centers will be ensured according to a tourism card in preparation, Riyas said, adding that the possibility of introducing a helicopter service is being considered. The section of road in Ghats, which is in a deplorable condition, is being rebuilt, he said.

Up to 26 of the 29 local bodies in the district have submitted tourism proposals and it will be developed on a timely basis, the minister said. Special importance would be attached to rural and responsible tourism projects as they would provide employment opportunities for the rural population and improve the rural economy, he added.

The officials concerned have been given instructions to complete construction work on key PWD roads on time, he said.