Travel to Masinagudy and Ooty Impacted by Madras HC Restrictions, Wayanad Tourism also Affected

The tourism sector in Wayanad has taken a hit following the recent restrictions imposed by the Madras High Court on the popular ‘Ooty via Masinagudy’ trips. The Court’s decision was influenced by the overwhelming crowds and water shortages due to the harsh summer weather. This order indirectly impacted the tourism industry in Wayanad, which is located near Ooty.

As a result of the restrictions, major tourist spots in Wayanad have remained closed, leading to a decline in tourism activities. The closure of eco-tourism centers in the district further exacerbated the situation, with many tourists opting to cancel their trips to Wayanad and Ooty.

The restrictions, which are in place from May 7 to June 30, require visitors to have an e-pass to enter Ooty. This has disrupted the usual two-day tour packages that included visits to both Wayanad and Ooty.

The water shortage and heavy traffic blocks in Ooty have also contributed to the Court’s decision. The scarcity of water resources and the environmental impact of the increasing crowds and vehicles prompted the authorities to intervene.

While the restrictions may bring relief to the residents of Ooty, they have raised concerns among those working in the tourism industry. The closure of the viral route to Ooty via Masinagudy may further impact the tourism prospects of Wayanad district. With a significant decline in tourist numbers compared to last year, the industry is facing challenging times ahead.