Kadambrayar tourism project set for revival

Kochi: Close on the heels of the Vypeen beach corridor initiative, the tourism department is set to revive the long-pending Kadambrayar village tourism project, aimed at transforming the scenic Kadambrayar waterway between Kakkanad and Pallikkara into a major natural getaway in Kochi. After years of delays, the District Tourism Promotion Council (DTPC) will launch the Rs 4.5-crore project on March 9. Kunnathunad MLA P V Sreenijan will inaugurate the construction works. Though the project was first conceptualized in 2009, it remained largely dormant for over a decade. "Kadambrayar is finally ready to realise its potential as an eco-tourism destination. The scenic location can serve as an ideal getaway for nearly one lakh IT employees working at the nearby Infopark. While the state govt has allocated Rs 3.5 crore following a request submitted during the Navakerala Sadas, the tourism department will contribute Rs 1 crore. Water-based activities such as boating, kayaking and angling will also be introduced," Sreenijan said. The project aims to rejuvenate the river and its surroundings by clearing weeds and increasing the water depth. A key attraction will be a 1.2km-long walkway along the riverbank, with agricultural fields stretching on the other side."The height of the walkway will be raised by 1.5m to prevent flooding during the monsoon. Interlock tiles will then be laid, allowing visitors to enjoy the area throughout the year," the MLA said. Boat services are also planned between Manakkakadavu and Infopark as part of the project. While the Kerala State Nirmithi Kendra will execute the Rs 3.5-crore infrastructure works, the Kerala Electrical and Allied Engineering Company (KEL) will handle landscaping, including decorative lighting. Boating and kayaking facilities, along with an open dining space on a nearby island connected by country boats, are expected to be major attractions. "The boating facilities will be introduced after the infrastructure works are completed. We plan to deploy coracles, pedal boats and motor boats to offer visitors a unique experience," said DTPC secretary Lijo Joseph.