Great news for tourists in Tamil Nadu! Kumbavurutty Waterfall… | kbnmart

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Kumbhavurutti waterfall at Achinkoil in Kollam, a popular tourist spot and a major source of income for the forest department, is set to reopen soon. Unlike other nearby waterfalls like Palaruvi, Kumbhavurutti waterfall has remained closed, much to the disappointment of tourists and locals alike. The closure has also affected members of the Vana Samrakshana Samithi (VSS) working at the eco-tourism centre, who are eagerly awaiting its reopening.

“If there is no heavy rain, we can reopen it by next week,” said a forest department official. “The waterfall was closed due to the risk of sudden water rise due to rain, and lack of facilities to evacuate tourists quickly. Currently, the water level is high, and the pool area is very deep. Since visitors of all ages come here, we had to restrict access for safety reasons.”

Located on the Achencoil-Schencottah road, the picturesque waterfall attracts a steady stream of tourists, especially from Tamil Nadu. During peak season, the site is visited by around 4,000 visitors a day, generating around Rs 200,000 per day. However, the site has a history of prolonged closures due to accidents and fatalities. After a five-year closure, the waterfall reopened in 2022, drawing huge crowds. Unfortunately, within a month, a tourist drowned and several others were injured in flash floods, highlighting safety concerns. Around 20 tourists were rescued by locals during the incident.

“While the waterfall generates significant revenue, visitor safety is our top priority. The waterfall will reopen with controlled visitor numbers and enhanced safety measures, including trained rangers,” the official added.

Tourists and the local community are eagerly awaiting the reopening of Kumbhavurutti Waterfall, looking forward to enjoying its natural beauty again under safer conditions.

Strengthening safety measures

The Forest Department has taken several steps to ensure the safety of visitors, including:

• Organized entry: Limit the number of visitors allowed at any one time to prevent overcrowding and ensure effective monitoring.
• Trained guards: Deploy trained guards to monitor the area and respond quickly to any emergencies.
• Safety barriers: Install safety barriers around high-risk areas to prevent accidents.
• Emergency facilities: Establish emergency facilities to provide immediate assistance in the event of any accident.

Economic impact

The reopening of the Kumbavuruti Waterfall is not just about tourism; it is also about boosting the economy of the area. The influx of tourists provides a steady income for local businesses, including restaurants, shops and transport services. In addition, the revenue generated from the entrance fees contributes significantly to the maintenance and development of the ecotourism centre.

Community participation

The local community plays a crucial role in the success of the Kumbavuruti ecotourism project. Many of the residents are employed through the Vana Samrakshana Samithi (VSS), which works closely with the Forest Department to manage the site. Their involvement ensures that the benefits of tourism are shared locally, fostering a sense of ownership and responsibility towards preserving the natural environment.

looking forward

As the Forest Service prepares to reopen, it is also planning long-term improvements to enhance the visitor experience and ensure sustainability. These plans include:

• Preserving the environment: Initiatives to protect the surrounding forests and wildlife, and ensure that tourism does not negatively impact the ecosystem.
• upgrading the infrastructure: Develop facilities such as bathrooms, viewing platforms and walkways to accommodate the increasing number of visitors.
• Community Programs: Educational programs for tourists and locals alike to raise awareness about environmental conservation and safety practices.

The reopening of the Kumbavuruti Waterfall marks a significant milestone for the region’s tourism sector. With enhanced safety measures and community engagement, it is expected to be a safe and rewarding experience for all visitors.