Participatory economy and overtourism: the long-term effect on the economic dynamics of Fort-Kochi

Abstract

Over the two decades Kochi, Kerala has experienced remarkable growth in a number of tourists, both domestic and international tourists increased to more than 30 percent between 1996-2016. The aim of this paper is to evaluate the long-term impact of participation and overtourism on the market dynamics of Fort-Kochi, as it became a popular tourist destination for their heritage values with a unique geographical location. Fort-Kochi located in the North-Western part of Kerala State in Kochi district is the main heritage tourist's attraction. It is known for its natural and built heritage, and become a great attraction for international tourists who find the experience both of exotic and heritage. Being more popular and being loved too much will become a challenge and which leads to overtourism. This research is trying to elaborate on the trend of mass-tourism and its impact on the economy of Fort-Kochi, as noticed a significant change in trends of tourist's shopping. It is brought out the economic problem of inflation and displacement of traditional occupation due to the uncontrolled increases of tourism activities in the Fort-Kochi. Due to overtourism and impact of factory-made market leading to endangering line on traditional craftsmanship. It is being threatened with extinction, and the consequences will be catastrophic. It is projected that such a trend may have a significant impact upon the local population of Fort-Kochi. This study is based on a survey of 25 local resident's feedback, 50 shop-owners and craftsmen and 50 tourists about the trend of shopping, demand and supply and its impact on city dynamics.