Fri Nov 15 21:22:11 IST 2024: ## Udupi MP Orders Safety Measures, Improved Infrastructure for Booming Tourism

**Udupi, Karnataka, November 15, 2024** – Udupi-Chikkamagaluru MP Kota Srinivas Poojary has directed several initiatives to enhance tourism infrastructure and safety in Udupi district, following a record 4 crore tourist visits last year. At a District Tourism Development Committee meeting on Friday, Poojary emphasized the need for improved facilities to accommodate the growing number of visitors.

Key directives include:

* **Improved Road Safety:** The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has been instructed to install side guardrails along the Maravanthe-Trasi beach stretch to prevent hazardous parking and beach access by vehicles.
* **Land Allocation for Dolphin Watching:** The district administration will transfer 26.5 acres of land at Kodi Beach in Kundapura to the Tourism Department for development as a dolphin-watching site.
* **Regulation of Water Sports:** Entrepreneurs offering adventure and water sports must obtain necessary permissions.
* **Addressing Homestay Nuisances:** The administration will investigate complaints about disturbances caused by guests at homestays in Malpe-Padukare.
* **Improved Beach Management:** The District Tourism Development Committee will assume management of Malpe Beach’s floating bridge, previously handled by private entities. The committee will also oversee the management of Malpe Beach and St. Mary’s Island.
* **Eco-Tourism Development:** A ₹10 crore project under the Swadesh Darshan scheme will develop eco-tourism and Amruth Dharohar sites, including bicycle tracks between Padukare and Kaup.

Deputy Commissioner K. Vidyakumari highlighted the ongoing efforts to improve tourism infrastructure and management, emphasizing the need for a coordinated approach to maintain the district’s appeal while ensuring visitor safety and environmental protection. The meeting was attended by local MLAs, officials, and other stakeholders.

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