Kerala is set to utilise the tourism potential of its 580-km coastline dotted by some of the finest seaside getaways including Asia’s longest drive-in beach in Muzhappilangad.
Inaugurating the first floating bridge at Papanasam Beach, Varkala, the seventh in the state, Mr.PA Mohamed Riyas Tourism Minister, Government of Kerala, said”There is a huge potential for beach tourism in Kerala, and it will be utilised effectively,” he said. “Kerala’s coastline is ideal for water sports. But there are a few projects now. It will immensely contribute to the state’s revenues.”
He said many investors had come forward at the first Tourism Investors’ Meet held in Thiruvananthapuram last month, expressing their interest in beach tourism.
Including these proposals, the minister said, the government intends to implement more beach tourism projects in public-private partnerships. A master plan has been formulated to comprehensively develop Varkala as a major entertainment and pilgrimage center in the state to be implemented in 2024.
Mr. V Joy, MLA, who presided over the function, said many projects, like the floating bridge, are being implemented to develop infrastructure at Varkala Beach.
The Department of Tourism has set up the floating bridge in association with the District Tourism Promotion Council, Kerala Adventure Tourism Promotion Society, and the Municipality of Varkala.
The bridge has a 100-meter length and a three-meter width with pillars on both sides. At the bridge’s end is a platform 11 meters long and seven meters wide, enabling visitors to enjoy the scenery far off the sea.
Constructed with 1,400 high-density floating polyethylene blocks, the bridge, held by 700 kg anchors, is equipped with all protective measures, including safety boats, life jackets, and lifeguards.
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