KATTAPPANA: The blooming of the rare Mettukurinjis on the slopes of Kalyanathandu after eight years has attracted large crowds. However, the influx of visitors, particularly those creating Instagram reels and taking photos, has led to widespread damage to these delicate plants. There are numerous complaints that many visitors are trampling the plants, causing significant harm to the Kurinji's fragile ecosystem.

Adding to the issue, another variety of Kurinji, known as Neelakurinji, is also facing neglect and a lack of protection. The Mettukurinji, which deserves special attention and conservation efforts, is not receiving the care it needs.

Furthermore, there are allegations that some resorts, which also function as banana plantations, are exploiting the blooming of the Kurinji plants for profit. These resorts are reportedly charging visitors illegal fees for access to view the flowers. The Kurinji plants have spread across more areas of the Kalyanathandu Hills, including locations near these resorts.

Currently, images of the diminished bloom at Kalyanathandu have gone viral on social media, with resort owners capitalizing on this by misleading tourists. They are diverting visitors to their properties through misleading advertisements, charging Rs 50 for entry and offering views of the blooming Neelakurinji near the resorts.

Flux boards advertising "Neelakurinji Visit" have been erected along the Churuthoni-Kattappana road, causing confusion among tourists. These boards lead visitors to the resorts instead of the actual Kurinji flowered areas. Municipal authorities have clarified that this operation by the resorts is unauthorized and lacks any official permission.