Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru (DV)

Mangaluru, Sep 27: "The District administration has drawn a plan to convert the Dakshina Kannada district as a tourism hub. So, to attract tourists and gain a blue flag tag, various beaches and islands will be developed," said MLA Y Bharath Shetty.

He was speaking during World Environment Day and launching of the Blue flag in collaboration with the district administration, Mangaluru Smart City, Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change Department, Government of India, and Department of Tourism in Tannirbhavi beach on Tuesday, September 27.

"The proposal has been sent to the union government to identify two beaches for the blue flag tag. As of now, the government has approved the application of Tannirbhavi for the blue flag. In the future, we will write to the union government to consider even Idya beach for the blue flag tag," he added.

"For the recognition of the blue flag tag, developmental works at a cost of Rs 7.5 crores will be done. All basic facilities will be provided including toilets, changing rooms and security facilities. Later, the application will be filed for the certificate of blue flag. Developmental works at a cost of Rs 9.5 crores will be done under the Smart City project. It includes construction of a jetty and parking facilities", he said. He also said that development of the beach and tourism will be helpful in creating employment opportunities for the youth.

After inaugurating World Tourism Day, Coastal Development Authority chairman Mattaru Rathnakar Hegde said, "Compared to other countries, we have failed to make tourism a source of income. It is essential to fulfil all the 30 criteria to apply for the blue flag tag. This should be done by taking locals into confidence. Proper parking facilities are very essential."

Deputy commissioner Dr Rajendra K V said that due to the pandemic, tourism is lagging behind for six months. "The district has a wide scope for tourism. Along with beach tourism, the administration is planning to attract tourists through the art, culture, rural environment and the Western Ghats of the region. Already to develop Panambur beach through a PPP model, a tender has been invited. Within 15 days the bid will be opened. First, it will be implemented on Panambur beach, and in the coming days, it will be implemented on other beaches," DC informed.

Deputy forest conservator Dr Dinesh Kumar Y K and deputy director of Tourism Department N Manikya and others were present.