Nearly half of Wayanad's tourism constructions illegal: Govt study

Many tent stays and resorts lack basic safety such as fencing or emergency response infra

- Shainu Mohan @T'Puram

NEARLY half of all tourism-related constructions in Wayanad are operating without a valid licence, according to a study by the local self-government department. The comprehensive report, released last week on sustainable and responsible tourism, has uncovered widespread regulatory violations, rampant illegal operations, and blatant environmental disregard affecting the district's tourism sector.

The study by the planning wing of the department revealed that nearly half of all tourism establishments in Wayanad -- including resorts, homestays, and serviced villas -- are operating illegally. Only 56% of these properties hold the mandatory LSGD licence, a mere 16% are registered under GST, and just 53% have secured consent from the Pollution Control Board (PCB) -- a critical requirement for ensuring environmental compliance and responsible operations.