Udupi DC eager to explore ways to tap into district's tourism potential

UDUPI: The district administration plans to set up a virtual 3D venue to offer tourists prominent destinations without travelling.
Udupi deputy commissioner M Kurma Rao has asked the officials of the tourism department to set up a virtual 3D room at a prominent tourism destination in the district. "Most of the tourists visit only one or two tourist spots in the district. If a virtual 3D venue is set up, they will get an opportunity to see all tourist spots in the district without travelling there. This will also help promote tourism in the district," the DC said chairing a meeting of the District Tourism Committee.
There are many tourist destinations that are yet to be developed, he said, and directed tourism department officials to invite expressions of interest from organisations to prepare detailed project reports.
A three-acre site of the port department near Kaup lighthouse may be developed into a tourism destination. An aquarium and other tourism activities can also be planned there.
The department should submit a proposal to get the land from the port department. Identify all prominent tourist destinations in five assembly segments of the district so they are developed. Trained tourist guides should be appointed too, the DC said.
To promote kayaking, the department should identify suitable institutions and clubs that have expertise to handle the sport. "For the convenience of house boats, sand blocks that pose a threat will be cleared through dredging. Tourism department should obtain permission from the environment department if the area is under coastal regulation zone (CRZ)," he added.
The DC also directed the officials to complete all development works at the earliest. Zilla panchayat chief executive officer Y Naveen Bhat, additional deputy commissioner J Sadashiva Prabhu and tourism department assistant director Clifford Lobo were present.