Kerala Tourism to push for driver facilities in star-rating norms for hotels and resorts

According to The Hindu, the Kerala Tourism department is moving to integrate mandatory driver facilities into the star-rating criteria for hotels and resorts across the state. This policy shift follows a series of protests by drivers who highlighted the lack of basic, well-maintained washroom facilities available to them at various luxury hospitality establishments. The initiative aims to ensure that support staff, who are integral to the tourism ecosystem, are afforded basic amenities while on duty.

The proposed changes are expected to be incorporated into the upcoming revision of the state's hotel and resort classification norms. By making these facilities a requirement for star-rated status, the government intends to formalize standards that have previously been left to the discretion of individual property owners. Officials noted that the move is part of a broader effort to improve working conditions for tourism-sector workers and to ensure that the state's hospitality infrastructure remains inclusive.

While the industry has historically focused on guest-facing amenities, this development marks a shift toward addressing the needs of the wider workforce. The tourism department is currently in the process of consulting with stakeholders to finalize the technical requirements for these facilities. Once implemented, the new norms will likely apply to both existing properties seeking renewal and new establishments applying for star-rated certification.