Despite an increase in the number of visitors to the Vadakara sandbanks, the development of basic amenities at the emerging beach tourism destination are still in its infancy. Even after the allocation of about ₹1 crore for the beautification of the location, not a single comfort station or coffee shop has become operational at the tourism spot.
Power connection
Though the comfort station building was completed several months ago, water and electricity connections are pending. A building constructed for a restaurant is in the same condition with no power or water connection.
“For more than five years, the location has been ignored by local bodies and the Tourism Department. People who visit the location now have to knock on the doors of local residents for their basic needs,” said P.M. Nidheesh, a youth organisation worker in the area.
He said visitors were found depending on nearby houses for potable water as no water kiosks were set up in the area.
A local body member from Vadakara said the opening of the comfort station and restaurant was delayed mainly due to technicalities related to the Kerala State Electricity Board.
Security issues
Recently, security issues at the spot too came to light with the poor presence of lifeguards. Though there were three lifeguards earlier, they left the job owing to poor remuneration. The lifeguards were appointed at the spot after an increase in drowning incidents involving children and youths was noticed.
The police said the opening of the Vadakara coastal police station helped them attend to most safety and security issues of tourists.