People’s Guest House Initiative bring 30 crore rupees in extra revenue to Kerala government

Thiruvananthapuram: The state government has earned an additional 30 crore rupees in just four years through the People’s Guest House initiative, which allows online booking of government rest houses across Kerala. Tourism and PWD Minister P A Mohamed Riyas said the project has become a major success by turning PWD rest houses into affordable and accessible stays for the public.

Launched on Kerala Piravi Day in 2021, the scheme made it possible for anyone to check room availability and book accommodations in advance through the department’s official website. Tariff details are also published online, ensuring transparency.

Since its launch, the initiative has recorded nearly five lakh bookings, with over ten lakh people making use of the facilities. Demand has grown so high that rooms in many locations are booked out weeks in advance.

In response, the government has built seven new rest houses and renovated 23 others. Approval has also been given to construct 17 more facilities, and work on them is already underway, the minister said.