As Kuttanad is still trying to recover from the economic aftermath of the epic deluge in 2018, several women who lost their livelihood are finding their footing in the tourism sector with the support of the Kudumbashree Mission.
A group of six women recently opened a water sports and entertainment park at Payattupakka in Neelamperoor grama panchayat. Another all-woman team set up a health tourism clinic at Pulinkunnu, while other groups have donned the role of tourism providers, opened cafeterias under the common name ‘Nalumani Kattu’, ‘Pournami’ restaurants and so on in different parts of the region known for its vast paddy fields, picturesque backwaters and a large network of canals.
“The economic consequences of the 2018 floods were quite sharp. We lost our means of livelihood and were facing an uncertain future when authorities suggested the idea of a water sports park. Apart from providing technical support, the government helped us bankroll the project. The venture is helping us achieve financial stability,” says Sherly Rajendran, a member of the team.
