The Panchayat Development Officer of Makkandur Gram Panchayat in Kodagu district has withdrawn the directive issued to the homestays against accepting bookings from tourists as a safety measure ahead of the monsoon.
The directive had led to anxiety among tourists over their safety, although it was confined to homestays in Makkandur GP. Stakeholders of the tourism industry, especially the hospitality sector, had objected to the announcement as they feared such a step would affect tourism.
In a letter to Vikas Acchaiah, president, Homestays’ Association, Kodagu, the PDO said the warning issued against bookings had been withdrawn. The panchayat told the association to ask its members to take all necessary precautions if the intensity of rains goes up in the coming days.