The Karnataka government has embarked on an ambitious mission to develop its pristine coastline, identifying a total of eleven beaches with the potential to earn the prestigious international Blue Flag certification. The announcement was made during the Coastal Karnataka Tourism Conclave in Mangaluru, outlining a significant push to transform the state's coastal districts into premier tourist destinations.
Beaches in Focus for International Recognition
Tourism Secretary Thrilok Chandra revealed that the beaches spread across three coastal districts have been shortlisted for development. In Dakshina Kannada district, the beaches of Someshwara, Ullal, and Sasihithlu have been identified. The Udupi district boasts five potential sites: Asare Beach, Kodi Kanyana, Padukere, Kodi Kundapura, and Shiroor Beach. From Uttara Kannada, Ballur, Apsarakonda, and Ravindranath Tagore Beach complete the list of eleven.
The Blue Flag certification is a globally recognized eco-label awarded to beaches that meet stringent standards of environmental management, water quality, safety, and services.
Massive Investment and Policy Framework
This initiative is a key part of the broader Karnataka Tourism Policy 2024-29. Forty-five specific tourism projects for the coastal districts, involving a total investment of Rs 718 crore, have already been sanctioned under this policy.
Secretary Chandra highlighted a diverse range of investment opportunities in the region, including destination weddings, river and maritime cruises, coastal resorts, beachfront hospitality, floating cottages, houseboats, beach shacks, and wellness experiences. The policy has set aggressive targets: to make Karnataka one of the top three states for domestic tourist footfall and among the top five for foreign tourist arrivals by 2029.
The state aims to attract over 50 crore domestic tourist visits and increase foreign tourist visits by 20 lakh by 2029. Furthermore, the policy seeks to draw over Rs 8,000 crore in direct investments, preserve 1,000 heritage monuments, and monetise 650 acres of land for tourism projects across Karnataka.
Mega Projects and District-Level Development
The plan includes developing 20 mega tourism projects, with ten specifically earmarked for coastal areas. Under the 'One District, One Destination' initiative, 30 flagship destinations will be developed. For the coastal belt, this programme will focus on developing Gokarna, Kaup, and Tannirbavi beaches.
Speaking at the conclave, Legislative Assembly Speaker UT Khader emphasised the need to treat tourism as a formal industry. He suggested that land required for building tourism infrastructure should be acquired through the Karnataka Industrial Areas Development Board (KIADB) to streamline the process.
Addressing Infrastructure and Sustainability
Dakshina Kannada Deputy Commissioner Darshan H.V. underscored the district's vast potential, noting that Mangaluru serves as the gateway to Karnataka's tourism, thanks to its beaches, temples, and natural resources.
President-elect of CREDAI Karnataka, D B Mehta, brought critical infrastructure issues to the fore. He stressed the urgent need to ensure a daily supply of clean drinking water to the beaches, pointing out the challenge of salinity which prevents digging borewells on the shores. Mehta also urged authorities to prioritise keeping the beaches clean and developing basic, tourist-friendly facilities to support the growth envisioned by the new policy.
