Bengaluru, August 21: The Karnataka government is developing a comprehensive tourism policy for the coastal and Malnad regions. Energy and Tourism Minister K.J. George announced on Friday that the draft is expected to be ready by September 7.
This announcement comes at a time when some parts of coastal Karnataka are viewed as communally sensitive areas. The region has previously experienced tensions and incidents of violence driven by political and communal motives.
The government aims to promote tourism and economic activities in these areas while addressing the challenges that have hindered development.
The proposed coastal-Malnad tourism policy seeks to leverage the tourism potential of both regions, known for their beaches, religious and cultural sites, forests, and unique natural features. It is anticipated that this policy will eliminate regulatory hurdles and create a better environment for investment and employment in tourism.
On Friday, George held a meeting at Vidhana Soudha with elected representatives from the coastal and Malnad regions. The discussion focused on tourism prospects, investment opportunities, and the challenges faced in obtaining approvals for tourism projects from various departments.
Elected representatives called for simplifying the approval process for tourism projects. MLA V. Sunil Kumar proposed a single-window system to facilitate tourism investment in the coastal area.
He stated that a streamlined system for approvals and coordination among different departments would help attract investment and accelerate tourism development.
UT Khader, the minister in charge of Mangaluru district, noted the significant tourism potential in the coastal area but mentioned that many projects face challenges due to regulations related to the Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ), eco-sensitive areas, and the forest department.
He suggested reviewing the regulations and approval processes while ensuring compliance with environmental safety measures.
Rizwan Arshad, the minister in charge of Udupi district, emphasized the need for a better environment for hotels and other tourism-related activities in the district. He recommended that the proposed policy consider provisions related to opening hours and other requirements based on tourist demand and the nature of tourism activities.
The meeting included tourism department secretary Dr. Ram Prasad Manohar, Captain Brijesh Chota, Kote Srinivas Pujari, V. Sunil Kumar, Manjunath Bhandari, Ivan D’Souza, Harish Poonja, Umanath A. Kotian, Bharat Shetty Y., D. Vedavyas Kamath, Rajesh Naik U., Bhagirathi Murulya, Ashok Kumar Rai, Gururaj Shetty Gantihole, A. Kiran Kumar Kodgi, Yashpal Suvarna, and Gurme Suresh Shetty, among others.
George stated that the suggestions from the elected representatives would be reviewed and incorporated into the draft policy. The coastal and Malnad regions are vital to Karnataka’s tourism assets. To fully realize their tourism potential, a comprehensive policy that considers local needs and the suggestions of elected representatives is essential.
The minister also mentioned that further discussions would take place before finalizing the policy. A cabinet meeting is expected to be held soon in Mangaluru to review the proposed policy and make further decisions.
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