JOIN USDevelop approach roads to tourist places: KCCI
The tourism potential and laxity on the part of the the government in promoting tourism in Dakshina Kannada district were discussed in detail at a discussion programme on the development of tourism in DK, organised by the Kanara Chamber of Commerce and Industry at KCCI hall here on Saturday.
In the discussion that was attended by KCCI office-bearers, tourism stake holders and mediapersons, the travel agency proprietors pointed at the lack of availability of a brochure on tourism with the tourism department. Proprietor of Lia Travels Eulalia D’Souza said that the tourists who arrive in cruise, though show willingness to explore the coastal district, no promotional activities have been made by the tourism department.
Another tourism agency proprietor William D’Souza supported her view saying “tourists are even curious to visit our fish markets. But are we in a position to take them to the filthy fish market in the city?”
Panambur Beach Development Corporation Chief Executive Officer Yathish Baikamapady stressed on the need for developing approach roads leading to tourism spots. Tourism should be developed on public-private partnership model.
On the deplorable condition of road leading to Panambur beach due to coal handling by New Mangalore Port Trust, he said the organisation which handles coal should maintain cleanliness in the area considering it as corporate social responsibility. “The dirty road almost makes it impossible for tourists and visitors walk on it. Dust cleaning machine should be used to clean the area,” he suggested. A journalist felt there was a need to improve some of the historical places which are the potential tourist destinations like Padumale in Puttur, an ancient house having links with Siri Jathre in Sullia, Bendretheertha. It is not enough to improve these places, but also the roads leading to the tourist places should be developed.
Though Jamalabad fort in Belthangady taluk is one of the sought out trekking destination, people who have visited there once, will not visit again visit for poor roads, he said. He also suggested to promote Western Ghats while preserving ecology.
Suggestions were also raised on promoting tourism in Dakshina Kannada with a catchy tagline on the lines of Kerala.
Mangaloreans who showed the best hospitality spirit during national youth festival, should show the same spirit year-long, said Yathish Baikampady. KCCI President Mohammed Ameen and others were present.