The Kerala High Court has directed that the Palkulamedu Reserve Forest, which falls under the Kottayam Forest Division, should not be opened for eco-tourism activities unless the necessary clearances and approvals are obtained from the competent authorities.A Division Bench of Chief Justice Soumen Sen and Justice Syam Kumar V.M. issued the order after hearing a public interest litigation filed by Thodupuzha resident M.N. Jayachandran. The court further ruled that the State government shall produce the necessary documents by way of an affidavit, within a period of three weeks.In the PIL, Mr. Jayachandran sought a stay on all proceedings, including the opening to the public of the Palkulamedu Eco Tourism Centre. He contended that it was inaugurated on February 28, without obtaining the permission from the competent authorities, including the Eco-Tourism Clearance Committee.The HC further directed the Chief Conservator of Forests, High Range Circle to file an affidavit disclosing whether all statutory formalities have been complied with, including obtaining approval from the Central government under Section 2 of the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980, as well as clearance from the Eco-Tourism Clearance Committee, in respect of the Palkulamedu trekking programme.The matter has been posted for hearing on March 6. Published - March 03, 2026 10:19 pm IST