Now Ooty and Kodaikanal will require an E-Pass Mandatory

The initiative aims to collect vital data on the variety and volume of vehicles entering these hill stations, facilitating better traffic management and environmental conservation efforts.

However, there's good news for residents – they are exempt from acquiring these passes. The emphasis lies on ensuring a smooth and hassle-free experience for local inhabitants while implementing necessary measures to regulate tourist traffic effectively.

To streamline the process further, the Collectors of Nilgiris and Dindigul have been directed to extensively publicize the e-pass system. This initiative aims to ensure that tourists are well-informed about the mandatory requirement, thus minimizing any inconvenience during their travel.

Moreover, the judges have proposed integrating a payment gateway into the e-pass system, in collaboration with the Information Technology Department. This innovative step would enable applicants to pay toll charges online, thereby reducing congestion near checkpoints, conserving fuel, and curbing carbon emissions – a significant stride towards sustainable tourism practices.

The decision to introduce e-passes stems from concerns raised by the Nilgiris and Dindigul Collectors regarding the escalating vehicle movement, especially during peak tourist seasons. The influx of vehicles can surge from a mere 2,000 to an astounding 20,000 per day, leading to congestion and environmental degradation along the ghat roads.

Highlighting the environmental impact of excessive tourist activity during summers, advocates and officials deliberated on finding viable solutions to mitigate the strain on infrastructure and natural resources. Nilgiris Collector M Aruna emphasized the vulnerability of the district, bordered by Kerala and Karnataka, and the need for proactive measures to address the escalating vehicle traffic.

It's noteworthy that the reported vehicle count includes essential goods transport, indicating the broader implications of managing vehicular movement beyond just tourism. Therefore, the introduction of e-passes serves as a comprehensive strategy to regulate vehicular traffic, ensuring sustainable tourism practices while preserving the ecological integrity of these pristine hill stations.

As travelers gear up for their summer escapades to Ooty and Kodaikanal, obtaining an e-pass is now an essential step in planning their journey. By adhering to this requirement, tourists contribute to the collective efforts aimed at promoting responsible tourism and preserving the natural beauty of these enchanting destinations for generations to come.