Taking a break from his bypoll campaign for Wayanad, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi focused his attention on the promotion of Kerala's scenic hill district. Once a destination famous for its lush landscapes and adventure tourism, Wayanad recently faced setbacks after severe landslides in July struck parts of the region. Wearing an "I Love Wayanad" T-shirt, Rahul Gandhi flashed the adventurous side of Wayanad as he rode the district's longest zipline. He taunted his sister, Priyanka Gandhi, to take the zipline ride "in a saree" in a lighthearted moment captured on camera.

How has the tourism sector been impacted by the landslides?

Rahul accepted the challenge of a tough recovery journey for the tourism industry of the district. Heavy rains on July 30 triggered landslides across villages like Punjirimattom, Mundakkai, Chooralmala, and Vellarimala; it damaged the livelihood of many. “The recent landslide has left tourism hanging by a thread, and livelihoods are suffering,” Rahul said. “From shopkeepers to homestay owners, everyone is working hard just to keep things going. Hearing their stories, I felt both deep concern for their struggles and immense admiration for their resilience.”

He emphasized a lot remains to be seen in Wayanad in the wake of this experience. The attraction is the largest giant swing in South India and also boasts one of the best drop towers in the country. “This is more than politics for me; the people of Wayanad have truly won a place in my heart,” he said. “Priyanka and I have taken it up as a mission to make Wayanad a top destination in Kerala. Wayanad embodies the best of India.”

Is Wayanad safe for visitors post-landslides?

Another visitor who joined the campaign was Priyanka Gandhi, who addressed concerns about safety in Wayanad. “While the landslide’s impact was confined to certain areas, the perception of risk has deterred many potential visitors. Wayanad remains safe and beautiful,” Priyanka assured, adding that the rest of the region remains vibrant and full of attractions.

She also spoke on the problems of small-scale enterprises in local businesses and cited that many homestay owners and other small businessmen have been financially reeling since the disaster.

Rahul Gandhi had sat in the Parliament earlier when he used to represent Wayanad. However, it is the bypolls that have brought him back to the district along with Priyanka and they are now canvassing to spread the message of the tourism potential of Wayanad. The decisive involvement of the Gandhis has again focused attention on Wayanad, but this time along with a cry for greater support that would help the district bounce back from the recent hardships it faced.