Kundapur: Backwater Islands With Tourism Potential Lay Unexploited

News & Pics: Suvarna Brahmavar
Daijiworld Media Network — Udupi (RD/CN)

Kundapur, May 22: Islands of various radii, known as Kudru in the vernacular, are being formed in the coastal district. The stream that originates in the Western Ghats, is joined by several rivulets and becomes a major river and confluences in the Arabian Sea. The rivulets flowing on the plain flow with heavy force especially during the monsoon rains separating many landmasses. The islands that are in the backwaters of the coastal district are pristine and exist away from human development. 

The landmasses have been formed by the rivulets since centuries and are found in the plains from Kasargod to Bhatkal.  The islands that are formed by the rivulets are about 100 acres in radius or less in some regions. Bavali Kudru, Kannada Kudru, Uppina Kudru, Heri Kudru etc are among the isles that may win away hearts of tourists with its lush green and serene atmosphere.

The islands in the backwaters have the potential to be developed as eco tourism spots, which will create employment opportunities for the locals. Although it does not make much difference to the locals, who are used to the island life, it will fetch them an income which might sustain them during times of adversity. 

Islands, Potential Tourism Spots

If these islands are developed as tourism spots – country resorts with a modern touch; it will give the city-folks an avenue to get away from the hustles and bustles of life in the company of Mother Nature during weekends. The tourism potential of these islands has not been fully exploited by the state administration. 

Many of the islands have no connectivity and locals still depend on rafts to reach the mainland. The natives live in eco-friendly houses that are developed by generations together.  They are engaged in paddy cultivation, dairy farming, plantation, and growing vegetables, which is their main source of sustenance. 

The coastal district has seen major development since a few decades. Thousands of hectares of farmlands including pristine forests are being exploited by mega industries to set up their facilities.  Owing to rapid industrialization in the undivided Dakshina Kannada district, the forests are disappearing to make way for urbanization.

If these pristine islands are exploited properly, they can be used for canoeing or boating, for tourists on weekends and small holidays.