Mangalore: Ways to boost tourism in Undivided DK district discussed at KCCI session

Pics by Ashritha D Souza
Bellevision Media Network

Mangalore, 14 Jul 2013: The Kanara Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) organized an interactive session with media persons and tour operators on tourism development in both Udupi and Dakshina Kannda (DK) districts here on Saturday July 13.
Various delegates who were present discussed why a tourist does not get attracted to Mangalore.

Yatish Baikampady of Panambur Beach Tourism Development Project said, ‘Media plays a major role in development of tourism and in attracting tourists. There are various problems coming in the way of tourism development in the district,’ said Yatish.

As a suggestion to increase number of tourists to the district, Yatish said the local people should be tourist-friendly. ‘At late night, if somebody is found moving around in the city, do not chase them, as security at night is a sign of a healthy society. Instead, extend your support to tourists and see the change which takes place by doing so,’ said Yatish.

Hotel Moti Mahal executive director Professor Shyamprasad said, ‘A tourist, whenever he or she visits the city, faces lots of problems and importance should be given to solving them. We have various cultural and other festivals celebrated with fervour here, it is important to chalk down those and advertise them in order to attract tourists,’ said Professor Shyamprasad.

Professor Shyamprasad further said, ‘A person travelling to any destination looks at security first. Kerala is ranked top in tourism destination today, but it was not so about 15 years ago. Tourism in Kerala has increased mainly because of the government’s encouragement and because of dedicated staff in the tourism sector. The same should be applicable even here in order to boost tourism,’ said Professor Shyamprasad.

 

A media person among the gathering pointed out, ‘Various historical monuments in the district are not being maintained properly. In addition, the district also lacks good road connectivity to tourism spots and there are no proper sign boards installed either. If all these are done in a systematic manner, then tourists will find their locations easily,’ said a media person.

Globe Travels proprietor suggested of convening a meeting with elected representatives and other tourism officials to discuss the issue. ‘A representation should be made to the government to form a separate tourism board in the district, in order to undertake development work and monitor it’ said veteran tour operator William.

Lia Travels proprietor Eulalia said, ‘A separate tourism police should be appointed or a part of the police personnel should be trained to be tourist-friendly, which will help in boosting tourism,’ said Eulalia.

Summer Sands Beach Resort managing director Aloysius Albuquerque also gave his valuable suggestions towards tourism development in the undivided Dakshina Kannada district.

KCCI president Mohammed Ameen, KCCI tourism Committee chairperson Vathika Kamath, KCCI treasurer M Ganesh Bhat, secretary Jeevan Saldanha, Nirmala Kamath, Manish Chowta and others were present at the occasion.