KOLLAM The district administration has banned plastic on Sambranikodi island, one of the major tourist attractions in Kollam.
‘No Plastic Zone’ boards will be set up at the destination and illegal food vendors will not be allowed to operate in the backwater.
According to the District Tourism Promotion Council (DTPC) around 4,000 to 5,000 people visit the island located on Ashtamudi Lake, one of the Ramsar sites in Kollam. The decision has been made to also ensure the safety of tourists. District Collector Afsana Parveen has issued instructions to strengthen police patrolling in the area during holidays.
Unlicensed private boats carrying tourists will not be allowed access to the island. The Port department has been directed to collect information on such boats and take steps to issue licence. The Inland Navigation department will study the need for eco-friendly geo-bags around the islet and the service of lifeguards will be provided. Tourists will have no permission to bring food from outside onto the island and visitors will be instructed to return within the stipulated time.
Survey
The Revenue LR Division has been directed to conduct a survey to determine the exact area of the island. A ticketing system for tourists under the DTPC is also under consideration.
“A meeting will be convened in the first week of May to assess the progress of the proposals,” said Ms Parveen after a meeting with DTPC officials, local body representatives, department heads, fishers and tourist boat owners recently.
The DTPC has been operating regular services to the scenic island formed by dredged sand nearly 400 metres off the coast. After the tourist inflow started increasing, the officials have come up with a string of proposals to protect the mangroves and provide basic amenities to visitors. Fencing the entire area, jetty extension, floating walkway and cloakrooms on the shore are among the changes to be introduced.
