Mangaluru, 11 Feb: The infrastructure development ought to take precedence over the local needs to get the benefits, said B J Puttaswamy, deputy chairman of Karnataka state Planning Board.
Puttaswamy was speaking after inaugurating Stakeholders Meet on coastal development that was held at Poonja International banquet hall, here on Monday, February 11 morning. It was organized by Coastal Development Authority (CDA).
The Authority has to execute the task that other departments unable to do so. Nearly 575 lac tourists from India and overseas visit Gujarat, while a meager of 5 lac tourist arrive in Karnataka. The tourism in Karnataka has to be geared to generate more revenue. The discussions are held with CM in this regard, said Puttaswamy.
The railway, air and road connectivity to Karwar port, Belakkeri port and nearby coastal cities in north Karnataka had to be developed to improve exports, trade and auxiliary activities. Meanwhile, this issue will be raised during the coming Budget session in order to turnaround tourism, added Puttaswamy.
CDA designated president Ratnakar Hegde urged Puttaswamy to allocate more state funds for CDA in the coming budget.
Dr Shalini Rajnish, Karnataka additional secretary for CDA, project coordinator and statistics briefed how the coastal development would work adhering to UNO regulations in developing coastal Karnataka to be of more benefit to the next generation. The investors meet would discuss the issues related to locals living along the coast, to tap tourism potentials and exports.
DK DC Sindhu B Rupesh, CDA Mangaluru secretary Pradeep D’Souza, Udupi ZP CEO Preeti Gelhot and officials of different departments, stakeholders were present.