Daijiworld Media Network – Udupi (NP)

Udupi, May 15: Malpe beach and St Mary's Island will remain out of bounds for tourists from May 16 to September 15, as the district administration has imposed restrictions on boat services and water adventure activities ahead of the monsoon season.

The decision has been taken in the interest of tourist safety due to the rough sea conditions and high waves expected during the monsoon. As per the Harbour Craft Rules, 1963, the period from May 16 to September 15 is declared a “foul season,” during which marine operations along the west coast are suspended.

Tourist disappointment

With the restrictions coming into force nearly two weeks before the onset of the monsoon, many tourists who had planned trips to the island have expressed their disappointment. The suspension includes all boat rides to St Mary’s Island and water adventure sports at Malpe beach for the next four months.

Meanwhile, tourism stakeholders noted that the tourist footfall to St Mary’s Island had already declined this year because of the intense summer heat. Many visitors avoided the island due to the scorching weather conditions. In addition, concerns over the war-like situation and disruptions in the cooking gas supply reportedly affected the travel plans of many families.

Partial beach access

However, authorities clarified that tourists can still enter the beach waters depending on the weather conditions. While boating and adventure sports will remain banned until September 15, visitors may be allowed into the shallow waters if the sea conditions remain favourable.

Barricades will later be installed along the shoreline once the sea turns rough, after which entry into the water will be completely prohibited.