Govt. unveils safety-centric adventure tourism policy

The Andhra Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation (APTDC) has received more than 130 applications from companies keen to launch adventure tourism activities in the State.

In response to the applications, the government on Tuesday, released a comprehensive set of guidelines for  aimed at regulating the sector and ensuring tourist safety. The new guidelines focus on key areas like registration and licensing of operators, safety standards, security protocols, environmental protection and employment opportunities for local youth.

The department has categorised adventure tourism in three segments: Water-based activities like speed boating, kayaking, river cruising, scuba diving and floating restaurants, land-based activities like rock-climbing, trekking and bunjee jumping and air-based activities like paragliding, hot air ballooning, skydiving and air safari.

To ensure tourist safety, all guides must undergo training in risk assessment and first aid and children under 18 years are prohibited from participating in high-risk activities.

APTDC Managing Director Amrapali Kata said: “The tourism corporation is committed to promoting adventure tourism while ensuring the safety and well-being of the tourists.” She added that the guidelines are designed to regulate the industry and provide a framework for operators to follow.