Udupi Tourism: Of 58 proposals submitted only 2 approved

Udupi: Out of the 58 proposals submitted to the government for developing tourism in the Udupi district, only two have been approved.

The approved projects include the development of the Dr. Shivaram Karanth Theme Park in Kota at a cost of Rs 25 lakh and the development of Someshwara Temple in Byndoor with a Rs 1.4 crore budget. However, no other proposals have received approval from either the state or central government.

The remaining proposals aim to develop various tourism spots across Udupi, Kaup, Karkala, Byndoor, and Kundapura taluks. The proposals include 50 projects under government funding and eight under the public-private partnership (PPP) model.

Key Developments Proposed

The projects focus on:

• Infrastructure upgrades at major beaches like Malpe, Maravanthe, and Kaup.
• Enhancing facilities at waterfalls and other tourist attractions.
• Promoting water sports and eco-tourism with modern amenities.

Among the notable proposals is a Rs 100 crore PPP model project for Maravanthe Beach development in Byndoor taluk.

Sources said under the Swadesh Darshan 2.0 scheme, the central government has sanctioned Rs 10 crore for eco-tourism and heritage site development. The tourism department is yet to commence work on these projects.

“We have sent several proposals to the government. Recently, two have been approved, and work will begin soon. Efforts are being made to secure more central government projects through our MPs,” said Kumar C.Y., Assistant Director of the Udupi Tourism Department.