The incident of a youngster's 70-feet fall while trekking at Kerala's Kottappara View Point in Idukki raises questions about the lack of safety features in certain tourist spots. Fortunately, fire and safety officials could save the Vannappuram native Samson George, who fell after slipping, as the region had received a good rainfall recently. Kottappara, which is often called the 'Meesappulimala' of Thodupuzha, is part of the Vannappuram Panchayat, and the rocky terrain drops off steeply with a 100-foot fall on one side. According to Panchayat President Biju MA, the region, which is under the Kaliyar Forest Range, started emerging as a popular tourist spot recently. 

Biju says, "Of late, youngsters have been arriving in groups and staying in the spot either overnight or during the day in their vehicles or tents, to enjoy the sunrise and sunset views, trek, or to check out the occasionally forming cloud bed here. At times, a police or excise officer would also be present at the spot. However, there is no facility in place to guide trekking enthusiasts. There are also no safety railings." A youngster had tragically fallen to death in the spot in 2022. 

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Kottappara View Point is in Vannappuram Panchayat of Idukki. Photo: Abin Issac.

Apparently, the panchayat had given a letter to the forest officials saying they can take care of the spot and enhance it with safety features and comfort zones. "We sent them the letter around two years ago. However, we did not get any reply from them," says Biju. There was no response from the forest officials, though Onmanorama contacted them regarding the same. According to Biju, spots like Aanachadikuthu, Kattadikkadavu and Meenulinjan Para are also similarly emerging tourist spots in the region that require special safety attention. 

If you ever plan to visit the spot, follow these safety guidelines:
1) Visitors should be extra cautious in the rainy season, as the rocks become slippery and the area is prone to gusty winds and lightning.
2) Follow the instructions of the police or local people to stay safe.
3) Do not venture onto the tip of the rocks to see the cloud bed, as you might not be able to properly ascertain a safe distance from the cliff. 

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