Daijiworld Media Network – Udupi (HB/EP)

Udupi, Feb 12: Deputy commissioner, G Jagadeesh directed officials to invite tenders to construct floating restaurants by the riverside and seaside in the district. He addressed a district tourism development committee meeting held at the deputy commissioner’s office auditorium on Friday.

"There is more scope to develop tourism in the district. After Padubidri beach, a survey is conducted to develop Kundapur Kodi beach to obtain Blue Flag recognition. A master plan is being prepared to develop Paduvari beach. A master plan for Tree Park, a restaurant and a tourism hub with various facilities at Ottinene is being prepared. All the beaches will be able to develop with their own income after the works," he said.

"Local people should be taken into confidence while developing Padubidri Blue Flag beach. Basic facilities should be provided at Padubidri main beach. The maintenance work should be assigned to local people in Padubidri and Kaup beaches.

"Distribute the petty shops at the seaside in Trasi and Maravanthe and complete the works taken up in the funds received under coastal circuit. Make sure to avoid violations of CRZ rules at beaches and use environment-friendly items during the works.

"Homestays in the district running without permission should be mandatorily registered. Take action if they do not get themselves registered. Hold a workshop to provide information to those who want to open homestays.

"Waterfalls in the district can be used for tourism activities. Construct toilets and roads at such places for the growth of tourism. Tourists can be attracted by houseboats. A proposal to provide subsidy for houseboats will be discussed during the budget."

District panchayat president Dinaker Babu, MLA Lalaji R Mendon, district panchayat member Shashikanth Padubidri, tourism department assistant director Somashekar, various district-level officials and tourism organizations representatives were present.