• Source:JND
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Ooty and Kodaikanal E- Pass: To regulate the influx of tourists and preserve the ecological balance of the Nilgiris, the Madras High Court has issued an order stating that all motor vehicles entering the Nilgiris and Kodaikanal between May 7 and June 30 must obtain electronic passes (e-passes). This new requirement aims to collect data on the number and types of vehicles entering the hill stations, as well as the volume of tourists during the summer season.

Ooty and Kodaikanal: Local Residents Are Exempted From This Regulation

The e-pass was introduced by a special division bench comprising Justices D Bharatha Chakravarthy and N Sathish Kumar. The e-pass was introduced to address the challenges posed by the influx of tourists in these picturesque destinations. However, there is no limitation on the issuance of e-passes, and local residents are exempt from this regulation.

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Ooty and Kodaikanal: Pay Toll Charges Online With E-Pass System

In addition to data collection, the judges have suggested exploring the possibility of integrating a payment gateway with the e-pass system. This would enable applicants to pay toll charges online, thereby reducing the accumulation of vehicles at check posts and minimizing fuel consumption and carbon emissions, according to The Hindu report

Ooty, Kodaikanal E-passes 2024: Purpose Of E-pass

The e-pass requirement applies specifically to visitors planning to travel to Ooty and Kodaikanal during the period from May 7 to June 30, 2024. The primary purpose of obtaining an e-pass is not to restrict entry but to gather vital information about the number of vehicles, passengers, and duration of stay in the hill stations. This data will assist in making informed decisions regarding future infrastructural developments in Ooty and Kodaikanal.

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Ooty and Kodaikanal: How To Apply For E-pass

To apply for an e-pass, individuals intending to visit Ooty or Kodaikanal within the specified time frame can submit their applications on the official website, epass.tnega.org. The application requires details such as the number of passengers, vehicle and fuel type, entry and exit dates, purpose of visit, and address. Once the application is processed, the applicant will receive an e-pass featuring a QR code, which will be verified at the entry points of Kodaikanal and Ooty.