Local authorities in Kozhikode are preparing to implement a comprehensive safe destination project at Pathankayam waterfalls after a string of fatal accidents over several years. The site, a popular eco-tourism spot, has seen around 20 drownings in unguarded stretches, prompting renewed calls for stronger safety measures and better destination management.
Pathankayam waterfalls safety measures
The proposed plan, to be taken up with support from the State Tourism department and the police, places priority on the deployment of trained lifeguards and the mandatory use of lifejackets by visitors entering the riverine areas. Local body members say the destination is being considered for inclusion in the State governments Destination Challenge Scheme, with expected financial assistance of 2 crore to fund infrastructure and safety upgrades.
Officials and residents are reviewing a set of practical interventions. These include the construction of retaining walls and barriers to block access to hazardous stretches, installation of closed-circuit television cameras at prohibited points to support live monitoring, and the creation of a tourism facilitation centre with an information counter, cafeteria, parking and hygienic comfort stations. First-aid facilities and clear signage will form part of the proposed visitor services.
Members of the Thiruvambadi grama panchayat who recently inspected the site said the project would ensure active police participation. They indicated that the long-pending demand for a police outpost to cover major eco-tourism locations will be reiterated with higher authorities. Residents and destination management committees have highlighted the need for a visible enforcement presence to deter miscreants who flout safety norms and tarnish the destinations reputation.
Local tourism entrepreneurs favour a participatory village tourism model. Under this approach residents would be invited to take part in sustainable tourism development and would receive training to manage visitor facilities and safety operations. A well-equipped destination management committee is expected to coordinate between the Tourism department, local gram panchayats and police to ensure timely implementation and continued oversight.
Beyond hard infrastructure, authorities are examining behavioural measures. These include strict rules on restricted areas, mandatory lifejacket checks at entry points and risk-awareness campaigns aimed at educating visitors on river safety. Officials say live monitoring through CCTV, allied with rapid response teams, will help track encroachments and enable decisive police action when needed.
Stakeholders stress that coordination between Thiruvambadi and Kodenchery grama panchayats will be crucial. Many proposals submitted in the past remained pending because of poor coordination, a local tourism entrepreneur said. With potential funding in place, officials hope to fast-track the project and deliver visible improvements before the peak tourist season.
If approved, the Pathankayam scheme would aim to combine improved safety standards with community-led tourism development. The objective is to protect visitors, restore confidence in the destination and create a model of sustainable management that other eco-tourism sites in the district could adopt. Local leaders say the project represents a practical step towards safer, better-managed access to one of Kozhikodes natural attractions.
Key Takeaways:
- State and local authorities plan a Pathankayam waterfalls safety project to curb drowning incidents and improve visitor management.
- Proposed measures include trained lifeguards, mandatory lifejackets, CCTV, barriers and a police outpost to enforce rules.
- The site may receive about 7 lakh under the Destination Challenge Scheme and will explore a participatory village tourism model.
