New ‘Authority’ to take over development of Pilikula

Mangaluru: The final preparations for the formation of an Authority announced by the State government two years ago to manage and further develop coastal Karnataka’s prime tourist destination the Pilikula Nisargadhama, are now underway.

The Nisargadhama will be a full-fledged authority from April 1.

Despite the announcement of turning the Nisargadhama into an authority, the government did not finalise a financial package for it. The district administration has decided to submit a Rs 5 crore proposal to the government.

The authority will be presided by the Deputy Commissioner of the district Dr Rajendra KV and will have its own budget.

Once the authority is formed it is expected that the government too will provide a package in the budget.

There was a huge slump in the gate collection due to the COVID-19-induced lockdown causing a challenge to even pay the staff working at the Nisargadhama and caring for the animals. Eventually Mangalore Refinery and Petrochemicals Limited aided in providing care for the animals.

“The Deputy Commissioner has instructed the creation of the authority for the development of the Pilikula Nisargadhama. It is expected to come into full effect by April 1. All preparations are being made in this regard,” said Gokuldas Nayak, Executive Director of Pilikula Nisargadhama.