Media Release

Udupi, Feb 19: Deputy commissioner Dr K Vidyakumari has instructed officials to prepare a master plan for the development of Malpe-Padukere’s Dariya Bahadur and Malti Islands to enhance tourism activities and improve basic infrastructure for visitors.

She was addressing the District Tourism Development Committee meeting held at the Rajathadri DC office in Manipal on February 18.

Dr Vidyakumari emphasized that the natural beauty of Malpe-Padukere’s Dariya Bahadur and Malti Islands captivates tourists, making it essential to provide all necessary infrastructure and amenities to support tourism activities. She also stressed the importance of modern and attractive development at Someshwara Beach to enhance tourist experience. This includes arrangements for vehicle parking, seating facilities, and other essential services.

Regarding Trasi Beach, the DC mentioned that tenders had been invited for beach maintenance and water adventure sports on a lease basis. However, no participants have come forward for the tendering process. Some contractors have requested permission to conduct water adventure activities at both the beach and the river, along with relocating parking facilities and implementing other improvements. She directed officials to review these requests and ensure that all water sports activities include third-party insurance coverage for participants. Additionally, she instructed authorities to install streetlights along National Highway 66 adjacent to Trasi Beach.

Dr Vidyakumari also called for strict measures to regulate rent payments for shops, cottages, and other tourism-related businesses operating in Malpe beach areas.

The meeting was attended by MLAs Yashpal A Suvarna, Gururaj Shetty Gantiholi, SP D. Arun K, Udupi municipal commissioner Uday Kumar Shetty, assistant director of tourism department Kumar C U, and other district-level officials.