Thiruvananthapuram: The Veli International Convention Centre, inaugurated with much fanfare by the tourism department in March this year at the Veli Tourist Village, remains non-operational. Despite being positioned as a hub for meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions (MICE) tourism, the 27,000-sq ft lakefront facility, constructed at a cost of Rs 20 crore, is yet to host a single event due to the absence of power connection.
Sources attribute the delay to alleged coastal regulation zone (CRZ) violations during its construction, which may have hindered the provision of essential utilities. "It has been eight months since the convention centre's inauguration. Staff claim that the power connection issue will be resolved within a month, but the delay raises concerns," said Environmental Protection and Research Council president Sanjeev S J.
The fully air-conditioned convention centre, with a seating capacity of 715, was expected to become a key attraction for both domestic and international tourists. A tourist facilitation centre is also part of the project that is located on 2.05 acres of land near the main entrance of the tourist village. However, the associated hotel project was dropped due to the presence of other accommodations in the area.
Meanwhile, tourism secretary K Biju told TOI that steps are being taken to address the operational issues. "The tender process to select a private partner for the centre's management and operation is underway, and all concerns will be resolved soon."
The tourist village has seen extensive development in recent years, including the installation of security cameras, solar lighting, renovated pavements, and a revamped children's park. The centrepiece of the village remains the country's first solar-powered miniature train, inaugurated in 2020. However, the stalled convention centre project highlights ongoing challenges in realising the full potential of the destination. Local stakeholders and environmental activists are urging authorities to expedite the process to ensure the facility fulfils its intended purpose and enhances the region's tourism prospects.