The Hindu Business Line : Madurai tourism potential `untapped'

Its potential to contribute to the economy through tourism is far greater compared to these cities. Lack of a local initiative to realise the inherent strengths has kept this potential untapped and much less understood by the people of Madurai, said Mr M.D. Vel, Chairman, Confederation of Indian Industry (CII), Madurai Zone.

Speaking to Business Lineon the sidelines of `Madurai Mystique 2004', a two-day conference and exposition on investment opportunity in tourism sector, here, Mr Vel said that the CII has taken the initiative to bring about an awareness among the public to the hidden treasure and through a consolidated initiative brand, Madurai as a `gateway to culture and heritage' in the international arena. However, there is need for an attitudinal change among the people to see tourism as an engine of growth with potential for employment.

This is necessary to sustain the economy of Madurai over the years and the aim of the conference has been just to drive home this point, he emphasised.

Joining Mr Vel, the Conference Chairman, Mr B.T. Bangera, said Madurai has a mythological connection, a continuous history dating back to ages, an architectural marvel in Meenakshi temple besides being a place of worship, Jain caves, called `Samana malai' in the outskirts, a palace structure in Thirumalai Nayakar Mahal in relation to recent history, age-long cultural practices presenting a richness in variety, enviable artecraft and floral arts, nearness to Kodaikanal hill resort and pilgrimage centre, Rameswaram, Thekkadi sanctuary, Chettinad heritages in Karaikudi etc.

These apart, in recent times, the infrastructure facilities have improved. Hotels and restaurants comparable to international standards have sprung up.

There was earlier only a single flight to Chennai, now there are four daily. With broad gauge conversion, there are trains connecting many places, he added.

Exclusive shopping centres, family amusement malls, showcasing the martial arts and rural sports would add to the promotion of the economy of Madurai.

To pave the way, free supply of tourist map with all details, a picture post-card for remembrance become pre-requisites. A courteous and endearing conduct and behaviour from the stakeholders need to be ensured. There has to be a linkage among the stakeholders. A joint effort is necessary.

Tour guides and tourist police have to become part and parcel of the system.

At present, data on tourists are lacking and no focused attention is paid towards promotion of tourism by all the concerned. Government could involve only up to a point. .

A three-month course on `tour guides' is being launched, Mr Bangera added.