Wayanad Tourism Under Scrutiny: Study Reveals Widespread Unlicensed Operations and Violations

A comprehensive study by the Local Self-Government Department has exposed alarming irregularities within Wayanad’s tourism sector, revealing that nearly half of all tourism-related establishments operate without proper licenses. The study, focusing on sustainable and responsible tourism in the district, uncovered a widespread pattern of regulatory breaches, illegal activities, and blatant violations of environmental laws across the region.

The detailed investigation, conducted by the planning division of the Local Self-Government Department, found that approximately half of the resorts, homestays, and serviced villas in Wayanad are operating unlawfully. A staggering 56% of tourism-related buildings lack the mandatory licenses from local self-government institutions. Furthermore, only 16% possess GST registration, and a mere 53% have obtained consent from the Pollution Control Board (PCB)—a crucial requirement to ensure responsible and environmentally compliant operations.

The study also highlighted a grave concern: multiple establishments are being constructed or already exist in high-risk zones prone to landslides and floods, or within their 500-meter buffer zones. This finding is particularly critical given Wayanad’s vulnerability to landslides and escalating human-wildlife conflicts. Disturbingly, many tent stays and resorts in these ecologically sensitive and dangerous areas lack essential safety features like fencing or basic emergency infrastructure.

Wayanad District Panchayat President, Shamshad Marakkar, has called for stringent action against these illegal tourist establishments. Expressing deep concern over the increasing number of incidents linked to unlicensed resorts and accommodations, he noted that many operate without the knowledge of local self-government bodies.

“Many of these resorts are located in remote areas away from main roads, making rescue operations extremely difficult during emergencies,” stated Marakkar. “This study serves as a foundational document. The District Panchayat had recommended forming special inspection squads under each local self-government institution to identify, verify, and take corrective action against illegal constructions.”

Marakkar emphasized the need to compel these building owners to present revised building plans, noting that even licensed establishments have undertaken unauthorized expansions. “This unpermitted development also leads to a significant loss of tax revenue for local self-government bodies,” he added.

He further stressed the necessity for the state government to establish a legal framework for camping sites, tents, and treehouses. “Currently, local self-government institutions have no authority to intervene in these matters. It’s time for the government to step in and establish clear regulations,” he explained.

According to the Town Planning Department, the misuse of K-Swift—a single-window system designed to streamline the process of obtaining various licenses and approvals for businesses through a unified online platform—is a contributing factor to the rising number of violations in Wayanad.

The field surveys for the study began with an initial list of 2,764 constructions. Over 89 days, the survey team visited 2,478 locations, representing 89% of the total. Detailed surveys were completed for 1,040 of these sites. The remaining 1,438 could not be fully surveyed due to various obstacles, including data duplication. Furthermore, 116 identified locations lacked any information beyond their names, making verification and follow-up actions impossible.