Authorities in Tamil Nadu have imposed new restrictions on tourist vehicle entry into Ooty and Kodaikanal starting April 1, 2025. The move aims to regulate traffic congestion and protect the fragile ecosystem of these popular hill stations.
Vehicle entry limits imposed
The Madras High Court has set daily limits on the number of tourist vehicles allowed into these destinations:
- Ooty (Nilgiris District): 6,000 vehicles on weekdays and 8,000 on weekends.
- Kodaikanal (Dindigul District): 4,000 vehicles on weekdays and 6,000 on weekends.
Authorities state that these measures are necessary to reduce overcrowding, control pollution, and ensure a smoother travel experience for visitors.
Mandatory E-pass system
To enter Ooty or Kodaikanal, all tourist vehicles must now obtain an e-pass before travel. The e-pass system has been implemented to monitor vehicle movement and regulate the inflow of tourists.
Tourists can apply for the e-pass online at https://epass.tnega.org before their journey. The authorities will check passes at designated entry points, and vehicles without valid passes will not be allowed entry.
Green tax collection with FASTag
To streamline entry procedures, the government has introduced a boom barrier system at Kallar Checkpost near Mettupalayam for green tax collection via FASTag. This initiative is expected to reduce manual verification, eliminate long queues, and facilitate smoother traffic movement.
Local business owners protest restrictions
While the regulations aim to improve tourism management, they have sparked opposition from local businesses. The Nilgiris District Traders Association has announced a complete shutdown on April 2, 2025, in protest against the vehicle cap and e-pass system.
Hotels, lodges, resorts, and commercial establishments in the Nilgiris and Kodaikanal will remain closed during the strike. Business owners argue that the sudden implementation of these restrictions could negatively impact the local economy, which heavily depends on tourism.
Why are these restrictions necessary?
Ooty and Kodaikanal have witnessed increasing environmental stress due to excessive vehicle entry, especially during peak seasons. Key reasons behind these restrictions include:
- Traffic Management: Heavy congestion disrupts smooth travel within hill stations.
- Environmental Protection: Over-tourism leads to deforestation, pollution, and disturbance to wildlife.
- Better Visitor Experience: Controlled vehicle flow can enhance tourists’ overall experience by ensuring cleaner and less crowded destinations.
What tourists should do
Visitors planning trips to Ooty and Kodaikanal must:
- Apply for an e-pass online before travel.
- Check vehicle entry limits to ensure compliance with the new regulations.
Use FASTag-enabled vehicles for faster entry at green tax collection points.
