Daijiworld Media Network -Udupi (DV)

Udupi, Sep 4: Deputy Commissioner M Kurma Rao has asked the officials  of the tourism department to draw a masterplan to develop Mannapalla of Manipal as a tourist destination and to form a crafts village.

He was speaking at the District Tourism Development Committee meeting.

" There is a provision to make Mannapalla as a crafts village through programmes like weekly markets, food fairs, and handicrafts fairs on the lines of Dehali Haat and Craft Village. This can attract several tourists. The officials should look into this. Draw a proper masterplan for this,"  DC said.

DC also asked to hold eco-tourism training in select villages.

He has asked the department of tourism and forests to draw a proper plan to develop trekking in forests in the district. He also asked the department to identify the routes for trekking which will be helpful for trekkers.

He also discussed the construction of a cycle circuit on the beach side of Padubidri and a cycle track from Kodi beach to Delta Point of Koditale in Kundapur. He also stressed upon the need for providing basic facilities near Kodi Seawalk, Kundapur and connectivity between Kundapur Seawalk and Gangolli Seawalk.

"The survey work for the construction of a ferry jetty near St Mary's Island at a cost of Rs 420 lacs has been completed. The work to obtain the no objection letter from CRZ is under process," said Assistant Director of tourism Department, Clifford Lobo.

The government has released Rs 250 lacs to upgrade basic facilities in Trasi and Maravanthe beaches at a cost of Rs 1000 lacs.

Already, the government has also released Rs 300 lacs and Rs 420 lacs for ferry jetty and to develop the Paduvari Someshwar beach at a cost of Rs 1500 lacs. Already DPR has been prepared for all these projects.

The construction of a Parashuram Theme park at Umikal in Karkala is in progress, said Clifford Lobo.