Chilakoor tunnel set to boost water tourism

Thiruvananthapuram: The renovated Chilakoor Tunnel at Varkala is set to open a new phase in state's water-based tourism, with the state govt preparing to inaugurate the first phase of the Akkulam–Chettuva Waterway project on Feb 26. Chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan will inaugurate Phase I of the 280km Akkulam–Chettuva Waterway at Chilakoor Beach Park in Varkala and launch a series of tourism initiatives centred on the restored tunnel and surrounding beach area.The 350m Chilakoor Tunnel, an engineering structure dating back to the erstwhile princely state of Travancore, was renovated under the state's inland waterways development programme. In the past, the tunnel served as a key link for inland navigation, enabling passenger and freight movement across south Kerala. With the canal now restored to navigable condition, authorities expect the tunnel to emerge as both a heritage site and a tourism attraction.
The renovation was carried out by Kerala Waterways Infrastructure Limited (KWIL), a joint venture between the state govt and Cochin International Airport Limited (Cial). Officials said the work was undertaken with care to preserve the tunnel's historical character. KWIL director S Suhas said the structure's logistical and historical importance was taken into account during the restoration. "The tunnel has re-emerged as a landmark heritage destination. Considering its importance, the surface was not disturbed by embedded fixtures," he said. Along with the inauguration, Cial will introduce an electric boat ride through the tunnel and a light-and-sound show developed at a cost of Rs 4.5 crore. The show will depict the life and teachings of social reformer Sree Narayana Guru and his association with Varkala, while also presenting the region's heritage and Kerala's cultural legacy. Using projection mapping technology on the tunnel's inner surface, the show will be experienced by visitors travelling through the tunnel in a specially designed 20-seater electric boat developed by Kochi-based start-up. A boat jetty and beach park have also been set up at Chilakoor Beach to enhance the visitor experience and promote the area as a tourism destination.