Boost Tourism with Safety and Modern Facilities: MP Kota Srinivas Poojary
Udupi, Nov. 16, 2024: Udupi-Chikkamagaluru MP Kota Srinivas Poojary has emphasized the need to enhance safety and convenience for tourists visiting the district, fostering a welcoming environment to boost tourism activities.
He was speaking at the District Tourism Development Committee meeting held at the Deputy Commissioner’s Office in Manipal on Friday.
Highlighting the district’s tourism potential, MP Poojary noted that over four crore tourists visited Udupi last year, with numbers steadily increasing. He directed officials to prioritize cleanliness at tourist destinations and provide all necessary infrastructure to ensure visitor satisfaction.
Regarding Kundapur’s Kodi Beach, he called for the transfer of 26.50 acres of land (Survey No. 310) to the Tourism Department to modernize the site. Kodi Beach, known for dolphin sightings, is the district’s unique attraction.
MP Poojary stressed the importance of safety in all tourism activities, including water sports and boating. He urged authorities to seek prior approval from relevant departments before commencing any activities.
He also requested the National Highway Department to install side guardrails and barricades along the Maravanthe Beach stretch to prevent accidents caused by visitors stopping vehicles unsafely to enjoy the view.
Discussing homestays at Padukere Beach, he advised officials to review complaints raised by local organizations and ensure no unauthorized activities take place.
Focus on Malpe Beach Development
Deputy Commissioner Dr. K. Vidyakumari highlighted that the management of Malpe Beach and St. Mary’s Island was previously handed over to the Malpe Development Committee. However, given operational and legal challenges, these responsibilities have now been reassigned to the District Tourism Development Committee.
Dr. Vidyakumari added that private operators managing floating bridges at Malpe Beach must share revenue with the Beach Development Committee in a 75:25 ratio. Plans for zipline activities at Malpe are also underway, pending necessary approvals and safety measures.
Central Government Support for Tourism Initiatives
Under the Swadesh Darshan Scheme, tourism sites in the district will see development projects worth ₹10 crore. These include eco-tourism initiatives and the creation of cycling tracks from Padukere to Kaup, as part of an integrated master plan.
A proposal has also been submitted to the Union Ministry of Tourism for developing Someshwara Beach in Byndoor under the Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment scheme.
The meeting was attended by MLAs Yashpal Suvarna and Kiran Kumar Kodgi, Zilla Panchayat CEO Bayal, SP Dr. Arun K., Additional Deputy Commissioner Mamatha Devi G.S., Tourism Department Assistant Director Kumar C.U., and other officials.
