How to Obtain E-passes and Navigate Travel Regulations

The scenic hill stations of Ooty and Kodaikanal in the Nilgiris and Dindigul districts, respectively, are gearing up for the upcoming summer flower festival amidst new travel restrictions. Visitors to these popular tourist destinations must now obtain an e-pass before entering the checkpoints, as mandated by the Chennai High Court to regulate the influx of tourists and assess the impact on the roads and ecosystem.

The Tamil Nadu government has launched a portal for availing e-passes for vehicles, with no extra fee required. The QR code for the e-pass has been widely circulated to facilitate the process. However, the major tourist spots in Ooty have seen a sharp decline in visitors due to the new travel restrictions imposed from May 1, limiting entry to light and medium vehicles only.

Preparations for the flower festival at the Government Botanical Garden in Ooty are in full swing, with the Chief Minister sanctioning funds for improvements and smooth conduct of the event. The garden, established in 1847 during the colonial era, has seen a significant number of visitors in the past months, generating revenue for the state.

As the flower festival approaches, tourists are advised to plan their visit in advance by booking e-passes and tickets for the event. With the new regulations in place, visitors can expect a more organized and sustainable tourism experience in these picturesque hill stations.