KOCHI: Concerned over the security of tourists and residents in Fort Kochi, the Fort Kochi police have started collecting details of all personnel who are employed in the tourism sector. According to police officials, it is an attempt to identify laborers in the area while also keeping a track of their movement. Since incidences of illegal activities are spurting in the area, the initiative will help avert untoward incidents involving tourists which could put a blot on the tourism map of Fort Kochi.
The Tourism Police station at Fort Kochi has been roped in for the survey and analysis. “There are over 220 institutions in the area working in the tourism sector. This is not part of the statewide campaign to collect migrant laborer details. Our initiative is only aimed at the tourism sector,” said Rasheed, SI, Fort Kochi, Tourism Police Station.
As part of the evaluation procedures, the police collect name, biodata, photo, a valid id card and the name of the hotel or restaurant or homestay they are working in. Special forms were designed and distributed by the police to the owners of these institutions who were asked to fill details of their staff. The Fort Kochi police is also planning a mapping of different lodging facilities in the area.
“ Forms have been distributed and we have already started collecting the details. However, the procedure can be completed succesfully only when the tourism season peaks up which is the time when tourism sectors hire more people,” said Srinath, police officer who is in-charge of the data collection.