Date:27/01/2005 URL: http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/2005/01/27/stories/2005012701471300.htm

Back Blip in tourist arrivals to Kerala highlights need for better preparedness

C.J. Punnathara

Kochi , Jan. 26

THERE has been a blip in long-distance tourist arrivals into Kerala, although of a temporary and minor nature.

"There have been some cancellations from long-haul holiday seekers from Europe and the US, who seem to have diverted their long winter vacation to short-haul destinations in the Caribbean and Mediterranean region. The primary reasons for the change of plans have been the long distances, short notice and the suddenness of the tsunami. There has not been sufficient time for the industry or the government to intervene and placate the apprehensions of these foreign visitors," Mr Sanjay Sharma, General Manager of the Le Meridien, Kochi, said.

And they all come from countries that have adequate disaster management and evacuation facilities to meet any crisis. This is the first time that a disaster of this magnitude is striking the Indian coastline and both the disaster management system and evacuation procedures were found wanting.

In the long-term interest of the tourism industry and for mitigating similar threats in future, it is time that a roadmap for disaster management and evacuation plans were formulated, Mr Sharma said.

The infrastructure development plan will not only mitigate such disasters in future, but also provide better facilities for local people and also augment tourism facilities.

Kerala tourism has not been significantly affected by the tsunami. In fact, the availability of the largest convention centre in Kerala beside the Le Meridien, has ensured that it has been a very busy season for the Kochi property.

Though there is a chance of diversion of tourist traffic from competing South East Asian destinations such as Sri Lanka, Thailand, Indonesia etc, Mr Sharma said the country and the State should plan six months down the line, when the next tourist season arrives.

Though the country was able to stave of the crisis of the tsunami admirably well, it is high time that this message was forcefully communicated to foreign visitors as well.