Security gets a boost as part of upgrade at Karnataka's Malpe Beach

UDUPI: The iconic Malpe Beach, arguably one of the most popular attractions in Udupi, is set to attract an even larger number of tourists in its new avatar. As part of its upgrade, the security at the beach was given a boost, making it a much safer haven for leisure and relaxation.
Sudesh Shetty, who holds the lease for Malpe Beach, and proprietor of Dial Mantra, told TOI that areas at the beach for water sports and swimming were now clearly demarcated.
"Buoys have been placed at strategic points, while jet skis and ATV bikes have been deployed for patrolling. We will have six lifeguards present at the beach round-the-clock, in addition to marshals and field supervisors. We have installed, in total, 55 closed circuit television (CCTV) cameras, of which 35 are on the beach, while eight of them are on the road leading to the waters, and a further 15 in the parking space. We have also upgraded our lighting system with LED Batten SMP bulbs. People can now relax at the beach till 10pm without fear," Shetty said.
He added that maintaining cleanliness was yet another priority for them. "To that end, we have put in place arrangements to ensure segregation of waste. We have installed dustbins across the area. On average, waste collected at the beach daily ranges between three to 12 tonnes depending on the turnout," said Shetty, adding that visitors could now rent sea-facing cottages.
He added that they had also introduced advanced courses on scuba diving, fly boarding, kayaking, surfing, among others. "Visitors can also enjoy the floating bridge, parasailing, jet skis, banana ride, fishing activities and other rides. We are hoping to offer helicopter and yacht rides on special occasions," Shetty said.
On the other hand, Shetty added, the team was persisting with its efforts to rid the beach of plastic. "We are also preparing in the earnest to host the three-day beach festival from January 20," he said.