Blessing in disguise, but we have the mettle and ammunition
When floodwaters shattered God’s own country, the lives
immersed in muddy waters, we tried everything we can, to raise our heads, and
finally with the support of the world , off course with stains and scars we
have succeeded..
Even though one of the darkest phases in Kerala’s recent
history while the floods caused havoc and this pristine land witnessed one of
the worst disasters it has ever seen didn’t dampen the spirit of hope and
humanity.
Every ordinary people done extra ordinary roles and prove
their mettle in handling adverse situations. They showed the real face of
humanity through plunged into the rescue and relief operations during the grief
time of their fellow beings.
Tourism, a major contributor to Kerala’s economy and a
significant source of foreign exchange is one of the sectors deeply affected by
the floods. The floods left the tourism
industry in a state of shock and disarray \" but only for a while. The tourism
trade has played a commendable role in the rescue, relief and rehabilitation
operations.
In order to recover from the setback, Kerala Tourism has
drawn uptime bound action plans. Government has taken up the reconstruction and
repair works of the roads on war-footing and primary connections have been
established.
The situation on the ground is back to normal, there are
more things which need our immediate attention. We need to boost confidence
among people in the tourism sector, both in India and other major markets to
boost the confidence of travellers. To reassure the world, Kerala Tourism is
looking to get the state back on its feet before the winter holiday season
kicks in and address the fears that have led global and domestic travellers to
drop the state from their travel itineraries.
Kerala Travel Mart, the biennial Tourism Trade Fair, which
showcases, Kerala’s entire tourism industry to the world will be organised in a
befitting manner, bettering the previous 9 editions. Already, we have 595
international tourism buyers from 66 countries and 1400 plus domestic tourism
buyers registered for KTM, which is starting from the 27th of this month.
Road shows will be other avenues that will showcase Kerala’s
readiness to the world. Kerala Tourism have plans to exploring the possibility
of organising the Boat Race League, which will help to send the message that
our waters are safe reaffirming the belief that we are stronger together, God’s
Own Country is all set to welcome the world.
The state estimates
that it could lose around Rs 5000 Crores from tourism revenues this year, with
nearly Rs 3000 Crores accruing in losses due to booking cancellations.
Meanwhile Kerala Tourism department has announced a 12-point plan largely
concentrate on rebuilding of infrastructure and connectivity issues along with
a damage control exercise on the brand image, it is also an opportunity to
refresh and revitalize the state as a tourism brand.
Thanks to the effort of millions, to help Kerala get back on
its feet. Kerala and its industry stake holders, thanking to the entire world from
their bottom of hearts for the wholehearted support and help when they are in
grief.
'Chekutty', the handmade doll born from the stained
chendamangalam sarees became the Iconic symbol of Kerala's resilience and
hope. Chekkutty remembers each of us the stories with the moral
“When things go wrong, then there are a hundred ways to make
it right”. Chekutty brings us hope, confidence and love at the time of grief,
despair and uncertainties and always remember us about the inner strength and
courage.
Kerala is back on track. God’s Own Country is ready to
welcome tourists once again.
Executive Editor
Rajani.A