The tourism potential along the state's coast could get a much-needed boost, with Bekal Tourism Authority (BTA) planning to develop an airstrip at Bekal for easy accessibility to tourists from Mangalore and Goa airports.
T K Mansoor, general manager, BTA, told TOI: "The technical feasibility study is underway. Once that is completed, we'll be able give the exact details of the airstrip."
The airstrip will come up at Periya, a 20-minute drive from Bekal. "Of all places in Kerala, Bekal has the maximum potential waiting to be tapped.
There are six resorts in and around Bekal. We've been receiving good tourist numbers, which will increase when we provide air connectivity," he added.
Asked if operations from Bajpe airport will cease after Kannur international airport comes up, Mansoor said: "Mangalore airport is a convenient location for us as it has good connectivity to the Gulf countries, rather than Kannur. Once Kannur airport comes up, we can have services from both ends.''
Airport sources said if the tourism industry leverages this aspect, it should boost the tourism potential of this region.
Kerala tourism authorities said that accessibility to Bekal for tourists is quite inadequate, compared to other tourist destinations in India. Due to this reason, upmarket tourists are hesitant to include Bekal in their travel itinerary.
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