Development of tourism sector vital for progress of DK, Udupi'

Udupi, Apr 5: The development of the tourism sector not only has a huge potential but is also best suited for the progress of Udupi and Dakshina Kannada districts, according to Udupi Deputy Commissioner R Vishal.

Speaking after inaugurating the workshop on “Development and Human Development in Coastal districts” organized by the Justice K.S. Hegde Institute of Management, here, he Dr Vishal said tourism generated employment and posed minimum harm to environment.

“It is essential to improve connectivity in both these districts (DK and Udupi) to promote tourism. This means the Shiradi Ghat road has to be developed properly and the national highways have to be improved. The existing relaxations in the Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) norms should be leveraged without any harm to the environment. The CRZ norms have to be scientifically implemented.

It is necessary to work on tourism packages as these districts have pristine beaches and famous temples. A tourist wants not only to visit temples but also to have some enjoyment. Hence, beaches such as Marvanthe, Trasi, Malpe, Kaup, Padubidri, were being developed in Udupi district.

Good beaches are real revenue generators. The district administration has taken various steps to keep Malpe beach clean. As a result, the revenue generated at the Malpe beach has gone up from Rs. 7 lakh to 10 lakh annualy to Rs. 1.12 crore annually in just a year. “Giving people better economic opportunities is essential,” he said.

Giving importance to tourism is essential as both Udupi and Dakshina Kannada districts are a remittance economy. The credit-deposit ratio of the banks is one of the lowest in the State because of remittance economy. The administration is making all efforts to bring senior citizens and children under the Aadhaar cover. This will help in providing direct cash benefits to the beneficiaries of various social welfare schemes, Dr. Vishal said.