Blow in the dark for Gavi tourists; rates doubled

ALAPPUZHA: Sad news to those who planned to visit Gavi with their children during the summer vacation. The fare for activities including boating, trekking and food has more than doubled. Gavi, an eco-tourism centre of the Forest Development Corporation, was closed on March 11 due to forest fire threats and wildlife disturbance. The trip was resumed yesterday.

The Corporation is implementing the special package at Gavi and at Kochupamba, where KSRTC's budget tourism services end. At present Gavi fares are 150 for boating, 480 for trucking, 170 for food (veg) and 220 for non-veg. All this will double. The Gavi rate of KSRTC will also increase from May 1. Currently, the fare from Alappuzha to Gavi is Rs.1700. Out of this 700 rupees is the ticket charge and the remaining 1000 rupees is the cost including entry fee and food. It will increase by at least Rs.500. From Kollam to Gavi, which was Rs 320, will be Rs 750 from May 1. The government's blow in the dark comes at a time when the number of tourists is increasing during the four-week holiday season.

Access is limited to 30 vehicles per day. Vehicles will be allowed to pass after booking online and taking the pass at the Angamoozhy Goodrical Forest Range Office and putting a seal at Kiliyerinjal Kallu forest checkpost.

The fare hike is part of bundling trekking, boating and food into one package. It will make the journey more enjoyable for the visitors.

- Forest Development Corporation, Gavi

There are concerns that the steep increase in fares will lead to fewer tourists. KSRTC has not increased the ticket price. Additional charges are levied by the Forest Department

-Budget Tourism Cell, Alappuzha