Daijiworld Media Network – Udupi (JD)
Udupi, Nov 16: The Udupi District Tourism Development Committee has taken back the management of Malpe beach and St Mary’s Island, which had been under the Malpe Beach Development Committee for the past 20 years, announced Dr Vidyakumari, deputy commissioner (DC) of Udupi.
Speaking at the District Tourism Development Committee meeting held at the Rajathadri District Collectorate in Manipal, she stated, “Citing challenges and legal issues, the management authority has now been returned to the District Tourism Development Committee.” The private entities managing floating bridge activities at Malpe beach will operate on a 75:25 revenue-sharing model with the Beach Development Committee. Plans for zip-lining activities at the beach will require prior permissions and safety clearances.
Under the central government’s Swadesh Darshan scheme, Rs 10 crore will be allocated for the development of tourist destinations, eco-tourism, and Amrit Dharohar sites. Proposed projects include creating a cycling track from Padukere to Kaup and providing comprehensive facilities.
Proposals have also been submitted under the Ministry of Tourism’s Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment Scheme for the development of Someshwar beach in Byndoor taluk, she added.
Highlighting the need for enhancing tourist safety and convenience, Udupi-Chikkamagaluru MP Kota Srinivas Poojary urged district authorities to foster a welcoming atmosphere and expand tourism activities in the region.
The MP noted the increasing number of tourists visiting Udupi, stating that over 4 crore tourists visited the district last year, with the number continuing to rise. “All necessary amenities must be provided for tourists, with a focus on maintaining cleanliness at tourist spots,” he added.
The MP also proposed transferring 26.50 acres of land in Survey Number 310 of Kodi beach in Kundapur taluk to the tourism department. He emphasized that the area, known for dolphin sightings, is a unique tourist attraction and should be developed with modern facilities.
Emphasizing the need for strict safety measures, he stated, “Any development at coastal destinations, such as water sports and boating, must prioritize visitor safety. Activities should only commence after obtaining necessary approvals from relevant authorities.”
The MP further stressed the importance of installing side guide rails and barricades along the Thrashe-Maravanthe Beach Road under the National Highway Department’s jurisdiction. “Vehicles parked indiscriminately near beaches attract visitors, increasing the risk of accidents,” he cautioned.
Regarding homestays near Padukere beach, the MP noted that certain activities have faced objections from local organizations. He instructed authorities to ensure that no unauthorized or illegal activities take place.
The meeting was attended by MLAs Yashpal A Suvarna and Kiran Kumar Kodgi, zilla panchayat CEO Prateek Boyal, SP Dr Arun K, additional DC Mamatha Devi G S, tourism department assistant director Kumar C U, and other district-level officials.
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