Kerala Tourism’s disabled-friendly project gets UN attention

The Kerala government’s Barrier-Free Tourism Project gets global recognition. The United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO) has made a special mention about Kerala in the Accessible Destination Awards 2019.

Global recognition coming Kerala Tourism’s way. The United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO) has recognised the Barrier-Free Tourism Project launched by the Kerala government in March 2019. In 2019, the government of Kerala had said it would make the entire state, particularly tourist spots, disabled-friendly.

Barrier-Free Tourism Project launched in March 2019

In October 2019, Kerala Tourism Minister Kadakampally Surendran announced that 98 out of 120 tourist spots had been made disabled-friendly as part of the first phase. Thrissur was among the first cities to come for attention. The infrastructure has been made completely accessible in places like Azhikode, Snehatheeram, Vilangankunnu, as well as Poomala and Vazhani.

The UNWTO has taken note of the makeover in Thrissur and made a special mention about Kerala for the Emerging Global Destination in the Accessible Destination Awards 2019. Kerala is the first state in India to follow the UN guidelines on disabled-friendly tourist destinations.

The award is given by the World Tourism Organization and ONCE Foundation that works for people with disabilities.

ALL TOURIST SPOTS TO BE MADE ACCESSIBLE BY 2021

Major tourist destinations in the state have facilities like ramps, accessible toilets, lactation rooms, Braille pamphlets, signage, touch-screen kiosks, audio and sign aids, wheelchairs and walking aids.

“We deserve this honour”, said Surendran. “It will enhance Kerala’s reputation as a global tourist destination.”

The Barrier-Free Tourism Project is being implemented with the support of private organisations. Projects are ongoing in Chavakkad Beach, Peechi and Thumburmoozhi.

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• Kerala tourism aims to become barrier-free for people with disabilities