Top priority for tourism development and curbing drug menace in Dakshina Kannada: Dinesh Gundu Rao

Team Udayavani, Sep 9, 2023, 9:56 AM IST

Bengaluru: In addition to prioritizing tourism development in the coastal districts of Dakshina Kannada, actions are being taken to address drug peddling and disturbances of communal harmony, said Dakshina Kannada District In-charge Minister and Health and Family Welfare Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao.

Speaking during an interaction held at the “Udayavani” Bengaluru office on Friday, he mentioned that there are opportunities for tourism in Dakshina Kannada, Udupi, and Uttara Kannada districts. Efforts will be made to promote a flourishing tourism sector in Coastal Karnataka, just like it is being done in neighbouring Kerala and Goa.  He added that discussions will be held soon with officials from the tourism department.

Dakshina Kannada boasts beautiful beaches and religious sites. If tourists choose to stay in the area, it will lead to the creation of employment opportunities, ultimately benefiting the economy. Hence, he emphasized the need to prioritize this form of tourism.

To foster tourism development in DK, Udupi, and Uttara Kannada districts, new facilities such as resorts, Ayurveda centers, and naturopathy spots should be established to attract people. About 15 years ago, many people used to visit Mangaluru for tourism, but the numbers have dwindled recently. Currently, Dakshina Kannada lacks adequate representation in terms of entertainment and tourism. He pointed out that local disputes and conflicts could be hindering the expected growth of tourism.

Drug menace

The Minister also said that strict measures against drug trafficking have been put in place. “After assuming the role of Minister-in-charge of Dakshina Kannada district, we convened a meeting with the police commissioner, SP, and inspectors, urging them to devise an effective plan to combat drug peddling. The results of these efforts will become evident in the next two to three months. We instructed the Police Commissioner and SP to take appropriate action, and they have indeed acted decisively against drug trafficking,” he added.

Regarding the issue of moral policing, he stressed the need for stringent action against those promoting communal hatred. “Regardless of one’s religious affiliation or influence, action should be taken swiftly and firmly. Since these measures were implemented, there has been some improvement in Dakshina Kannada,” he said.

Law and order / Police Commissioner transfer

On the decision to transfer the Mangaluru Police Commissioner in just 6 half a year, he said that the action was not deliberate, but a routine one. “Officials come and go as part of their duties. However, they will be encouraged to take action against criminal activities,” he added.

As for law and order, there is some concern about security in Dakshina Kannada. Many are inquiring about the safety of enrolling their children in local colleges, he said, and reassured that the law and order system in place is robust, and there is no need for worry.

Finding permanent solution to sea erosion

Sea erosion is a complex challenge, that encompasses multidimensional issues. It is difficult to contain the force of sea waves. Even if measures are taken on one front, the impact may not be as expected. He stressed the importance of consulting experts and devising a scientific solution.

The Chief Minister has also suggested conducting a thorough study before taking any action, he said and noted that sea erosion has increased since the construction of the barrier wall near Battappadi.

Promises made to fishermen in the budget have been fulfilled. Many benefits have been extended, including increased subsidies, improved loan facilities, and increased diesel allocations for larger boats, he added.

Tunnel at Shiradi Ghat  

Regarding the proposal for the construction of a tunnel, Dinesh Gundu Rao said that the Chief Minister has convened a meeting with relevant officials to discuss the development of the Shiradi Ghati road connecting Mangaluru to Bengaluru. The National Highway Authority has submitted a proposal to the government for the construction of a tunnel in the area. Discussions will be held with the Minister of Public Works and further action will be taken after weighing the pros and cons to ensure it does not harm the environment, he added.