Vaccination in full throttle in Kerala

Kerala has accelerated its COVID-19 vaccination campaign to turn all tourism destinations completely risk-free for visitors. Vythiri in Wayanad has thus become the first 100%-vaccinated tourism destination in the state. Major centres to be covered under the initiative are Alappuzha, Munnar, Fort Kochi, Kovalam, Kumarakom and Varkala.

Hazel Jain

Kerala has accelerated its total COVID-19 vaccination campaign to turn all tourism destinations completely risk-free for visitors, with Vythiri in upland Wayanad district becoming the first holiday hub to cover the entire population, including tourism sector stakeholders, under the initiative.

Rolled out by Kerala Tourism Minister PA Mohamed Riyas, the mission aims to keep the whole of Kerala ready to receive visitors when the pandemic recedes. The inoculation drive has picked up momentum in all destinations – hill stations, backwater hubs, sea-side holiday spots, and heritage and cultural tourism centres in the state.

“In the post-pandemic phase, visitors will be looking for safe and hospitable places to spend time. The government considers it vitally important to administer COVID-19 vaccine to all stakeholders in all the destinations across the state. Blessed with unsurpassed natural beauty, Wayanad has immense tourism potential. We have major plans to develop the area as a hub for a rich mix of holiday and leisure activities,” says Riyas.

Dr V Venu, Additional Chief Secretary, Tourism, Government of Kerala, says that the vaccination campaign is picking up well as it is being conducted on ‘mission mode’. “Industry bodies, employee forums and local communities are actively involved,” he says.

“This initiative will position Kerala as a risk-free place in the post-pandemic phase. Enhancing the visitor confidence in places they choose to travel will be a key factor in the future,” according to VR Krishna Teja, Director Tourism, Government of Kerala.