Munnar was all geared up for the Independence Day weekend when the India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a red alert in seven districts, including Idukki. As rain, landslips and cave-ins continue, the hill station is witnessing mass cancellations instead of brisk business. While houseboat operators were expecting a tight schedule, trips were disrupted and their services were brought to a standstill since the first day of August.
Despite the heavy inflow of domestic tourists in 2022, an erratic monsoon and extreme weather events are taking a toll on Kerala’s travel and tourism sector. “We were experiencing a boom after COVID-19 brought the sector to its knees. Many hotels were sold out for the long weekend, but during the last few days, the entire scenario changed. There has been a steep decline in business, with occupancy falling to 10% from 70%. Agents say chances are high for last-minute cancellations till August 12,” says K. Jayan, a tour operator.
According to industry stakeholders, weather woes can generate a prolonged negative impact on the sector which had begun to pick up some steam. “At present, outdoor activities are not allowed in hill stations, backwater destinations and beaches. Even districts on green alert have not resumed tourism operations and we have been asked to wait a couple of days more. The situation is unpredictable and it will definitely reflect in the future tourist influx. If there are repeated spells of severe weather, tourists from other States and countries will stay away from Kerala. Families, a segment that usually prefer safe vacation plans, will also be redirected,” says a senior Tourism department official.
