Idukki, Cheruthoni Dams Open to Tourists

Quick Summary

• The Idukki and Cheruthoni dams in Kerala will be open to the public from September 1 to November 30, coinciding with the Onam vacation.
• Visiting hours are from 10 a.m. to 4.15 p.m., accept on Wednesdays or days when red/orange rain alerts are issued.
• Entry is permitted only via buggy cars, with ticket prices set at ₹150 for adults and ₹100 for children.
• Mobile phones, cameras, and electronic gadgets are prohibited on dam premises.
• visitors must secure time slots through online booking at keralahydeltourism.com or by scanning a QR code; they should report 20 minutes before their scheduled entry time at the counter located along the Vellappara route on the Thodupuzha-Puliyanmala State Highway.

Indian Opinion Analysis
The decision to allow limited public access to the iconic Idukki and Cheruthoni dams highlights Kerala’s ongoing efforts to merge tourism with infrastructure assets responsibly while ensuring safety protocols during monsoons. By implementing measures such as online pre-booking, restricted timings, gadget prohibitions, and adherence to weather advisories, authorities aim to strike a balance between promoting tourism and preserving critical water management infrastructure for flood control.

These restrictions could also set an example of lasting tourism practices for othre states managing similar essential structures like dams or reservoirs. However, smooth implementation of this initiative will depend heavily on strict compliance from tourists regarding safety measures such as gadget bans and timely arrival for entry slots.

Read more: The Hindu