Daijiworld Media Network - Udupi
Udupi, Jan 29: Udupi district authorities have finally stepped-up enforcement following the tragic boat mishap at Bengre near Hangarakatte, in which three people lost their lives. In the wake of the incident, the district administration, tourism department, ports department and police have issued a strict warning to all those operating tourist-related activities illegally.
Officials have stated that several tourism-supporting activities are being carried out without legal permissions across the district. Such operators have now been given 45 days to complete registration through the tourism department, failing which strict action will be initiated.
Locals have alleged that despite authorities being aware of unauthorised tourism activities for a long time, no effective action was taken earlier. Many believe this negligence also contributed to the recent boat tragedy. Residents have now demanded strong and immediate action against all illegal operators.
Apart from unregistered tourist boats, the district is also witnessing a rise in illegal homestays, especially along the coastline and at the foothills of the Western Ghats. Locals claim that these unlicensed establishments are harming the environment and are also conducting adventure activities without proper approval. There is growing demand for strict action against such ventures as well.
As per existing safety norms, every boat must provide life jackets to all passengers, and these must be worn during emergencies. This issue was discussed in a meeting held at the Deputy Commissioner’s office on January 27.
The district administration is now considering even stricter measures, including making it mandatory to wear life jackets throughout the entire boat journey, and imposing fines on those who fail to comply. Superintendent of Police Hariram Shankar said awareness messages and warnings will soon be issued to boat owners and the public.
Meanwhile, a video has gone viral showing district in-charge minister Lakshmi Hebbalkar, deputy commissioner Swaroopa T K, and others travelling to St Mary’s Island on January 26 without wearing life jackets, instead holding them in their hands. This has triggered criticism from the public, with many questioning how authorities can demand compliance when leaders themselves fail to follow the rules.
A meeting of water sports operators, tourist boat owners and kayaking operators was held at the Coastal Security Police Station in Malpe under the chairmanship of the DySP. Around 40 boat owners participated.
Operators were instructed to ensure that all necessary documents are prepared and maintained properly before continuing boat, kayaking and other water sports activities in the coming days.
There are also allegations that during new registrations or renewal processes, officials often ignore violations despite being aware of irregularities, allegedly due to personal benefits received from operators. Locals have demanded that corruption within departments must be curbed first to ensure effective enforcement and public safety.