Fort Kochi set to become a green tourism destination; all details here

Fort Kochi, one of Kerala’s most popular tourist destinations, is on its way to becoming a fully green tourism destination. If reports are to go by, Fort Kochi would achieve this milestone by March 31.
A key focus of the initiative is improving waste collection and processing in Fort Kochi. The review meeting evaluated current waste management methods and highlighted the need for stricter measures to prevent illegal waste disposal. To support this initiative, additional waste bins will be installed on Fort Kochi beach and surrounding areas. Shopowners and street vendors will undergo awareness programs to ensure they comply with waste disposal guidelines. Illegal vendors will be evicted to maintain cleanliness, and health squad inspections will be intensified to enforce regulations.
Strict rules for plastic waste
The authorities are taking strict measures to combat plastic pollution in the area. The Haritha Karma Sena (HKS) will be responsible for collecting plastic waste from shops, and businesses that fail to comply with proper waste management practices will face strong action. Measures will also be taken to control the use of single-use plastics.
Work towards improving sanitation facilities
If reports are to go by, public toilets in the area will be renovated, and sanitation activities will be ramped up to accommodate the large number of visitors. As per reports, Fort Kochi sees a daily footfall of 25,000 to 35,000 tourists.

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How to reach Kochi
By air:
The Cochin International Airport (COK) is the nearest airport, located about 37 km from Fort Kochi. It has excellent connectivity with major Indian cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, and Chennai.
By train:
- Ernakulam Junction (ERS) – This is the main railway station, well-connected to all major Indian cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, and Chennai.
- Ernakulam Town (ERN) – Handles trains from various parts of Kerala and neighboring states.
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By road:
Kochi has a well-developed road network. From Bangalore, Fort Kochi is about 550 km (10–11 hours) via NH 44 and NH 544. From Chennai, it is about 690 km (12–13 hours) via NH 38 and NH 32. From Thiruvananthapuram, it is about 200 km (5–6 hours) via NH 66. There are Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) and private buses operating regular services from major cities in Kerala and South India.
By water:
Visitors can also reach Fort Kochi via ferries from different parts of Kochi, such as Ernakulam and Vypin. These provide a scenic and budget-friendly way to travel while avoiding traffic congestion.