The Kakkayam ecotourism centre in Kozhikode is scheduled to resume operations on May 10 after being closed for over 100 days due to a bison attack. The decision to reopen was made during a meeting at the Kakkayam Forest Office, with MLA Sachin Dev in attendance.

In an incident on January 20, tourists were attacked by a wild bison. However, the decision to close the centre came after a second attack on a farmer named Abraham on March 5.

Constant reports from Mathrubhumi highlighted the struggles faced by traders, auto-taxi employees, and tourist guides due to the extended closure of the tourism centre. While the Kakkayam dam site’s eco-tourism centre resumed operations on May 1, tourists were unable to access the Urakkuzhi Falls, a prime attraction, due to the ecotourism centre's closure.

Forest department officials have assured that necessary safety measures will be implemented to facilitate tourist visits to the Urakkuzhi area adjacent to the forest.

Kakkayam dam

Kakkayam, located in Kozhikode district, is renowned for its trekking trails, boating opportunities, and scenic beauty, earning it the moniker ‘Ooty of Malabar.’ Accessible via a 45-kilometre journey from Kozhikode on the Balussery road, Kakkayam boasts numerous attractions such as the Kakkayam Dam, Kuttiyadi Hydroelectric Project Reservoir, Kariyathumpara, and Urakkuzhi Waterfall.

Part of the Malabar Wildlife Sanctuary, the area is teeming with rare flora and fauna, offering visitors a glimpse of wildlife during boat rides on the reservoir. Recognised by the International Union for Conservation of Nature as one of the richest biosphere reserves globally, Kakkayam's allure is particularly enchanting during the rainy season.

Despite a slight decline in tourist numbers during the COVID-19 period, the reopening of the ecotourism centre is expected to attract visitors eager to explore the natural wonders of Kakkayam once again.