Date:13/10/2004 URL: http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/2004/10/13/stories/2004101301041900.htm

Back Kanara Chamber submits action plan on tourism development

Our Bureau

Mangalore , Oct. 12

THE Kanara Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI), which has come out with an action plan on tourism development in Dakshina Kannada and Udupi districts, has stressed the need for the development of infrastructure in the region, apart from providing better facilities at places of religious importance.

It has also suggested that local events such as "kambala" (buffalo race) and the "paryaya" (bi-annual religious event) at Udupi be promoted at the national level in a big way.

In a press release here, the KCCI President, Mr A. Srinivasa Rao, said that the Chamber has submitted an action plan on tourism development to the Chief Minister, Mr Dharam Singh.

Mr Rao said that both the State and the Central Governments should visualise the requirements of the two districts, and take up infrastructure development on priority.

The Union Government should give importance for the early completion of Mangalore-Bangalore railway line and airport expansion activities. It should also convert the two-lane Mangalore-Kundapur into a four-lane one.

The Centre should consider the establishment of an exclusive berth for cruise liners at the New Mangalore port.

Mr Rao said the action plan has sought the recasting of coastal regulatory zone (CRZ) norms to develop beach tourism.

Kambala, a local event, which takes place on Sundays between November and February, has to be projected in a big way.

Also the paryaya festival at Udupi - in which one of the head swamijis of "ashta maths" (eight maths) assumes the responsibility of worshipping Lord Sri Krishna for a two-year period - can attract more devotees from various parts of the country, and the Government should also consider highlighting this aspect, he said.