Thannithodu/ Pathanamthitta: Even as the tourism season just around the corner, neglect from authorities continues to haunt the once-popular Adavi eco-tourism project in Pathanamthitta. The treetop bamboo huts, once a major draw for visitors, are now in a state of disrepair, crying out for urgent maintenance.

Located in the Peruvali forest area under the Forest Development Agency of the Konni Forest Division, the site features five treetop bamboo huts and a dining hall. Two of the huts have been lying in ruins for over two years after a tree fell on them, damaging the roofs. Exposed to rain and weather without any repair, the floors and walls have also deteriorated, making complete reconstruction necessary.

The remaining three huts were rented out to tourists until last April. Since then, a board announcing renovation has been installed, but no actual restoration work has been initiated. The situation is no better with the dining hall. A tarpaulin sheet has been tied over its leaking roof, while the rusted balcony behind the hall is on the verge of collapse.

The three remaining bamboo huts originally required only a few days renovation works. But what initially required just a few days of repair has now turned into prolonged inaction. Apart from repeatedly revising cost estimates, no visible progress has been made even after months.

This delay comes at a critical time, with rising inquiries for Onam season bookings. Continued inaction in restoring the facility could result in the loss of a valuable revenue opportunity. When the bamboo huts were first opened to tourists eight years ago, they were in such high demand that bookings stretched months ahead.

Nestled along the banks of a wild forest stream, the bamboo huts offer a rare chance to experience nature, wildlife, and birds in their natural habitat. Restoring them with enhanced facilities could not only revive eco-tourism in the area but also generate sustainable income and employment for local communities.