the State Tourism Department which is on a drive to develop infrastructure in major tourism destinations. It is also exploring new markets in China, Russia and Malaysia.

As a primary step, Kovalam development project is being implemented to ensure proper water supply and waste management.

Tourism Director Rani George said that all major tourism destinations such as Munnar, Fort Kochi, Bekkal and Alappuzha would get a facelift. Along with it, new destinations would also be developed.

There are plans to explore new markets in West Asia and Australia,” she said.

Road shows will be conducted in Russia, China and Malaysia. The problem facing the department is communication with those in the trade and it would be sorted out soon.

The department would also take steps to showcase Kerala in important areas in these countries.

An expert team of architects and consultants would assist the department in developing the tourism destinations of the state.

A panel of architects would prepare the master plan for the existing destinations and identify new ones and prepare projects for their development. Rani George said that already 25 firms had been identified for constituting the panel. They would be making presentations on their achievements during the last week of April before finalising the list.

“This fresh panel would be entrusted with the master plan and detailed project report for tourism development,” she said. U V Jose, Additional Director, planning and projects, said that new destinations would be identified by the new team.

The architects would follow statutory rules and regulations in the design of tourism buildings. They would also give more focus on implementing responsible tourism principles and guidelines.