Kerala set to reopen for tourism by October

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The state government is planning to open tourism activities by October first week, minister Kakampally Surendran assured tourism panel members of Confederation of Indian Industry, Kerala chapter during an interaction here on Wednesday.
The minister also told the panel members the tourism department has prepared a detailed report on the opening up of tourism activities. He said that the department has prepared a new marketing strategy to attract tourists to Kerala.
“The plan includes highlighting importance of wellness and ayurveda for immunity. The file has been presented to chief minister and health department for their advice,” the minister is learnt to have informed the CII team members.
Thomas John Muthoot, chairman, CII Kerala, who led the discussion, recalled how Kerala tourism industry had managed to bounce back last year after the floods. He requested the government to offer the same or more support for the reopening of the sector.
The key suggestions made by the industry body to the government include the following: Open all tourism activities following safety protocols, formally announce the date of reopening in advance and tourists should not be mandated to undergo quarantine. Kerala has already permitted exemption for business visitors from quarantine if they are returning within seven days.