Vagamon glass bridge draws massive crowds; Over 1 lakh tourists flock in 3.5 months

IDUKKI: Over a span of three-and-a-half months, the Vagamon glass bridge has seen an astounding influx of over one lakh tourists with thousands left disappointed during the Christmas holidays due to overcrowding. The remarkable 40-meter-long glass bridge perched at an elevation of 3500 feet above sea level is situated within the Kolhalamet adventure park, a mere four kilometers away from Vagamon.

In recent days, vehicles heading towards the adventure park, housing the iconic glass bridge have faced prolonged hours of gridlock. Visitors are required to physically collect tickets on-site for admission which operates between 9 am to 5 pm. Each session allows entry for 15 people at a time with a duration of five to ten minutes per person. However, during adverse weather conditions such as heavy winds or rain, access is restricted for safety reasons.

Since its inauguration on September 6 by Tourism Minister Muhammad Riyaz, the glass bridge has attracted a daily surge in visitors, averaging between 1000 to 1200 admissions per day. The substantial income generated from ticket sales has totaled Rs 2.50 crores to date. Notably, the construction of the glass bridge, crafted from imported glass originating from Germany incurred a cost of Rs 3 crores.

The entry fee stands at Rs 250 per person contributing significantly to the revenue. This initiative was established as part of the government's collaboration with private entrepreneurs spearheaded by Idukki DTPC in partnership with Bharat Mata Ventures Private Limited based in Perumbavoor. The revenue generated is split, with 40 percent allocated to DTPC and the remaining 60 percent directed to the collaborating company.