KOZHIKODE: The tourism project at Thonikadavu near Kakkayam has finally got off the mark, with the construction work of a watchtower beginning on Monday. Both the tourism and irrigation departments had approved a revised estimate giving it a boost. The Rs 2.57-crore project envisages setting up of boat services, viewpoints, six rain shelters, amphitheatre and children's park, besides the watchtower. The previous budget was Rs 1.91 crore, and the project had commenced years back only to get a grinding halt.
"The construction was started in October 2014 to be completed by March 2016. But it was stuck due to various reasons, including the issue over cutting down more than 400 trees," joint tourism director C.N, Anitha Kumari said. The project is near Kariyathumpara on the land owned by irrigation department and funded by the tourism department. The land is part of the reservoir of the Kuttiadi irrigation project. "Still, a lot of works needs to be done to for the operating system on the spot. Setting up of drinking water facility, building steps towards the boat jetty and laying power lines are pending important works," she said.
The project got a new lease of life after the district collector convened a review meeting of tourism works of Balussery constituency in January. Following that, a delegation led by Balussery MLA, Purushan Kadalundi visited the spot. "Thonikadavu, Kariyathumpara, Vayalada tourism projects are the allied portion of Kakkayam major project. The developing of such a tourism corridor could only tap the full potential of this picturesque region," said Balussery legislator Purushan Kadalundi.
