THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Kovalam, the beach known for scenic sunsets, is getting an ideal location for viewing this natural phenomenon. The Tourism Department has kick-started the beautification work of Edakkallu, located between the Light House and Eve’s beaches. Edakkallu, which offers an enchanting view of the sunset, is now in a pathetic state and prone to accidents. The beautification of Edakkallu is being carried out as part of the ‘Destination development initiative’ recently announced by the Tourism Department. Around ` 49 lakh is the estimated cost of the work. The area will be developed into a rock garden. Tourism Minister A P Anil Kumar inaugurated the beautification works at 5 pm on Tuesday. One of the ideal locations for sunset viewing, Edakkallu, ironically, is in a hazardous state now. Rocks are slippery and the location is isolated. Currently, there is no restriction on entry. The Tourism Department feels the current location of the lifeguard station is an eyesore, taking into account the aesthetics of the place. The beautification of the over one-and-a-half acre of land includes cleaning up of the area, setting up a rock garden, redesigning the lifeguard station, establishment of a checkpost at the entrance and installation of eco-sensitive lighting. One interesting part of the makeover is the introduction of bio-fencing. The rock garden will be marked using bio-fencing by planting Pandanus (screw pine). The Tourism Department will construct steps leading to the area. A bamboo checkpost will be used to restrict entry. Apart from bio-fencing using Pandanus, Euphorbia plants will be planted for beautification. Furniture made out of stone will be made for seating arrangements. The highlights of Tourism Department’s ‘Destination development initiatives’ are a drinking water scheme for Kovalam, four-star guest house and tourist amenity centre at Ponmudi, edutainment-cum-leisure enclave at Akkulam tourist village and beautification of the helipad area at Varkala.
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