A project has been prepared to renovate the memorial of noted travel writer S.K. Pottekkatt and the adjoining bamboo grove, transforming them into a vibrant tourist destination near Mukkom in Kozhikode.

The S.K. Memorial Centre, located on the river islet at the confluence of the Iravanjippuzha and Cherupuzha rivers, was constructed in 2005 by the Karassery grama panchayat in memory of the writer, who once lived along the scenic riverbanks. It was in this riverside area that Pottekkatt spent time, and his novel Naadan Premam is set against the backdrop of Mukkom.

As part of efforts to prevent erosion along the Cherupuzha, the panchayat had earlier developed bamboo groves in the area. Over the years, these bamboo clusters have grown dense and widespread, offering both natural protection and a picturesque setting. The area now attracts hundreds of visitors from nearby hilly regions, who come to relax and enjoy the riverside ambience.

The new project, according to officials, aims to upgrade the memorial and surrounding bamboo grove to make them more accessible and visitor-friendly. Karassery panchayat president G. Abdul Akbar said the local body plans to renovate and develop the centre in a phased manner. An initial allocation of ₹20 lakh has been earmarked in the local body’s Budget for the initiative.

At present, the memorial centre gets submerged during the monsoon season. To address this, plans are in place to construct a flood-resistant structure on concrete pillars. The proposed development includes a cultural centre, library, park, landscaped garden and a skywalk connecting the nearby Mukkom Kadavu bridge to the new building. Additional amenities such as a stage for cultural programmes, restrooms and food courts are also part of the plan.

Earlier, Tourism Minister P.A. Mohamed Riyas had announced a project to illuminate the bridge. The Kozhikode District Panchayat has also expressed its willingness to support the renovation of the memorial centre, raising hopes that the area will soon emerge as a major tourist attraction.

Meanwhile, saplings of green bamboo recently planted in the grove at the centre were destroyed by anti-social elements. The signboard was also vandalised. The management of the centre has been entrusted by the panchayat to the Bahuswaram Samskarika Koottayima.

“The saplings had grown taller than a person. Both we and the panchayat authorities have filed a complaint with the police. A case has been registered, and an investigation is underway. We demand that the police intensify the probe and arrest the culprits,” said Salam Karamula, chairman of the Bahuswaram Samskarika Kootayima.