Mangalore: Ways to boost tourism in district discussed at KCCI session
Pics: Ramesh Pandit
Daijiworld Media Network – Mangalore
Mangalore, Jul 13: The Kanara Chamber of Commerce and Industry on Saturday July 13 organized an interactive session with media persons and tour operators about the development of tourism in Udupi and Dakshina Kannda districts.
Various delegates who were present discussed why a tourist does not get attracted to Mangalore.
Yathish Baikampady of Panambur Beach Tourism Development Project said, "Media plays a major role in development of tourism and in attracting tourists. There are various problems coming in the way of tourism development in the district."
As a suggestion to increase number of tourists to the district, he said the local people should be tourist-friendly. "At late night, if somebody is found moving around in the city, do not chase them, as security at night is a sign of a healthy society. Instead, extend your support to tourists and see the change which takes place by doing so."
Prof Shyamprasad, executive director of Hotel Moti Mahal said, "A tourist, whenever he or she visits the city, faces lots of problems and importance should be given to solving them. We have various cultural and other festivals celebrated with fervour here, it is important to chalk down those and advertise them in order to attract tourists."
He further added, "A person travelling to any destination looks at security first. Kerala is ranked top in tourism destination today, but it was not so about 15 years ago. Tourism in Kerala has increased mainly because of the government's encouragement and because of dedicate staff in the tourism sector. The same should be applicable even here in order to boost tourism."
A media person pointed out, "Various historical monuments in the district are not being maintained properly. In addition, the district also lacks good road connectivity to tourism spots and there are no proper sign boards installed either. If all these are done in a systematic manner, then tourists will search and visit the places."
William D’Souza of Globe Travels suggested convening a meeting with elected representatives and other tourism officials to discuss the issue. "A representation should be made to the government to create a separate tourism board in the district in order to undertake development work and monitor it."
Eulalia D’Souza, proprietor of Lia Travels said, "A separate tourism police should be appointed or a part of the police personnel should be trained to be tourist-friendly, which will help in boosting tourism."
Aloysius Albuquerque from Summer Sands beach resort also spoke on the topic.
Mohammed Ameen, president of KCCI, Vathika Kamath, chairperson of tourism committee of KCCI, M Ganesh Bhat, treasurer, Jeevan Saldanha, secretary, Nirmala Kamath, Manish Chowta among others were present.