Daijiworld Media Network – Udupi (JD)
Udupi, Jan 27: District Commissioner Swaroopa T K has directed officials to accord top priority to the safety of tourists visiting the district, particularly those frequenting beaches and other popular tourist destinations, and to ensure that all necessary precautionary measures are taken to prevent any loss of life.
She was speaking while presiding over a coastal safety meeting held at the deputy commissioner’s Office conference hall at Rajathadri, Manipal, on Tuesday.
Highlighting the growing number of tourists opting for sea rides and boat services to enjoy the scenic coastline, the DC stated that all tourist boats must obtain mandatory permissions from the port department, police department, Coast Guard, local authorities and the tourism department before venturing into the sea.
She instructed that all tourist boats operating in the district must submit the required documents and compulsorily register with the tourism department within 45 days to obtain official permission. Boats functioning without authorisation will not be permitted to operate. She further added that boats which have already received permission must renew their licences annually.
Emphasising passenger safety, Swaroopa T K said that the use of life jackets must be strictly enforced on tourist boats. Every tourist must wear a life jacket before boarding and entering the sea. Awareness pamphlets on the use of life jackets should be prominently displayed at beaches and other tourist hotspots.
She also directed that pre-recorded audio announcements be played on tourist boats, stating that the boat will not proceed unless all passengers are wearing life jackets.
The DC further instructed that warning and safety signboards must be installed at all tourist locations. A meeting of tourist boat owners will be convened shortly to direct them to obtain proper licences. In addition, workshops will be organised for boat owners and operators to provide training on safety protocols and insurance facilities, with expert resource persons conducting the sessions. Lifeguards and rescue personnel must also be adequately trained in lifesaving techniques, she added.
The meeting was attended by superintendent of police Hariram Shankar, additional deputy commissioner Abeer Gadyal, assistant director of the tourism department Vindhya N M, and other officials.