Conservationists are shocked over reports that the Tamil Nadu Tourism Development Corporation Limited (TTDC) plans to open up the eco-sensitive area surrounding Pakkasuran Malai, a hill near Coonoor, to tourism. They say tourism to the region could severely impact the rare, endemic biodiversity that is found in the area.
According to officials, TTDC plans to open up to toursim, Droog Fort, a historic fort on the peak of Pakkasuran Malai spread around 40 cents of land, with plans to construct a viewpoint, a toilet and food court facilities. The Fort and the hill are popular hiking spots.