Date:30/09/2004 URL: http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/2004/09/30/stories/2004093001891900.htm

Back `Set up Coastal Tourism Circuit'

Our Bureau

Mangalore , Sept. 29

ESTABLISHMENT of "Coastal Tourism Circuit" is the need of the hour to provide better facilities to the tourists visiting the region, according to the President of the Kanara Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI), Mr A. Srinivasa Rao.

Addressing presspersons here on Wednesday, he said that tourism has not been developed in Karnataka, and a few steps have been taken to promote it.

Though being a major centre of tourist attraction, there is no tourism officer in Mangalore. The Government should introduce exclusive luxury buses to tourists to visit various destinations in the region, he said. Relaxation of the coastal regulatory zone (CRZ) norms is essential for the development of tourism activities in the district. The relaxation in norms could even help in setting up a "marine drive" in Mangalore, he said. Setting up of a permanent centre for organising trade fair and exhibitions could add to the tourism potential of the district.

`Repeal APMC Act'

Mr Rao said that KCCI will support the free trade market proposed by the Karnataka Government, and will seek the repeal of Agricultural Produce Market Committee Act. Stressing the need for the introduction of value-added tax, he said traders should be educated about this aspect.