Daijiworld Media Network - Udupi (JD)
Udupi, November 9: The number of tourists visiting Malpe Beach is steadily increasing. District commissioner Dr K Vidyakumari has directed officials to take necessary steps to implement essential infrastructure for the convenience of these visitors. She was presiding over the Malpe development committee meeting at the deputy commissioner's Office in Rajatadri, Manipal.
Dr Vidyakumari emphasized the need to prepare a comprehensive master plan report for the Malpe and Padukere beach areas, including provisions for cleanliness, food courts, restrooms, and parking facilities, while reserving areas for port and fishing activities. This report should be prepared swiftly to facilitate convenience for tourists.
She stressed that any developmental work undertaken for the benefit of tourists at Malpe Beach must prioritise safety. Recently, there has been an influx of tourists, especially on weekends, from within and outside the state, many of whom lack local beach information. She recommended providing necessary information to tourists to prevent any untoward incidents.
To enhance safety and security at the beach, Dr Vidyakumari instructed officials to recruit lifeguards, provide them with necessary training, and employ them on a contract basis. Additionally, lifeguards should be deployed at St. Mary’s Island as well.
High-mast street lights should be installed in the beach areas to ensure adequate lighting, and their maintenance should be regularly monitored to avoid any lighting deficiencies.
Complaints have been received about contractors exceeding boat capacity during water adventure activities. She instructed that if contractors exceed the allowed capacity or flout regulations, they should be penalized and issued notices.
The meeting was attended by MLA Yashpal A Suvarna, Municipal Council president Prabhakar Poojari, council members Yogesh Salian, Lakshmi Manjunath, and Vijay Kodavoor, District Panchayat chief executive officer Prateek Bayal, District superintendent of police Dr Arun K, commissioner of the Municipality Uday Kumar Shetty, and other district-level officials.