Kozhikode: The Kakkayam eco-tourism centre, nestled amidst streams, hills, and waterfalls, reopened on Friday after a prolonged closure due to heavy rains. The District Forest Officer (DFO) had previously ordered its closure following a yellow alert issued by the collector.

This closure marks the second shutdown since January 20, when the centre was closed for over 100 days following a bison attack on tourists. The intermittent closures have significantly impacted local traders, auto-taxi drivers, and tourist guides, causing a loss of income.

While the Hydel Tourism Center at Kakkayam Dam continued to operate, the closure of the eco-tourism centre deprived visitors of experiencing the scenic Urakkuzhi falls, a prominent attraction in Kakkayam, Kariyathumpara, and Thonikkadavu tourist centres.

Forest department officials assured that adequate security measures will be implemented to ensure tourists' safety when visiting the Urakkuzhi area adjacent to the forested region.