Mangaluru: Expressing strong dissatisfaction over the functioning of the Pilikula Development Authority, the Karnataka Legislature Committee on Subordinate Legislation has said the authority has failed to realise the true potential of Dr. Shivarama Karantha Pilikula Nisargadhama as an ecological, scientific, educational, cultural and tourism hub.
The observations were made during a review meeting on the development of Pilikula, chaired by Committee Chairman and MLA S. R. Srinivas. Members of the committee questioned the authority, headed by Dakshina Kannada Deputy Commissioner H. V. Darshan, over the lack of a focused vision for the integrated development of the popular nature park.
Committee questions deviation from Pilikula’s core mission
MLA Mantar Gowda questioned whether the authority was fulfilling the objectives for which the Pilikula Nisargadhama Society was established.
He asked whether meaningful ecological and scientific research was being carried out, especially after officials highlighted projects such as the golf club and water park. Legislators stressed that Pilikula was originally envisioned as a centre for the conservation, education and study of the Western Ghats’ rich biodiversity.
Members flag poor coordination and promotion
MLC K. Shivakumar criticised the lack of coordination among various government departments responsible for Pilikula’s development. He said poor public relations and inadequate promotion had prevented the destination from attracting more visitors from outside Mangaluru.
Warning that continued administrative apathy could seriously affect the future of Pilikula, he urged the authority to improve public outreach by organising regular press conferences and promoting its attractions more effectively.
Call for better tourism and cultural activities
The committee also criticised the Tourism and Kannada and Culture departments for not organising regular events at Pilikula.
MLC T. A. Sharavana suggested holding monthly cultural programmes to attract visitors throughout the year, while K. Shivakumar proposed organising a dedicated “Pilikula Utsava” instead of limiting activities to the annual Karavali Utsava.
The committee directed the authority to prepare a comprehensive blueprint for the integrated development of Pilikula, with greater emphasis on conservation, education, tourism and cultural promotion.