Mangaluru: In a move aimed at transforming Karnataka’s coastline into a premier tourism destination, Member of Legislative Council (MLC) Ivan D’Souza announced that the state government will establish a Coastal Tourism Development Board (CTDB). The board will focus on promoting tourism in Dakshina Kannada, Udupi and Uttara Kannada districts, which together attract a significant share of visitors to the state.
Speaking to reporters, D’Souza said that Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar will convene a meeting in Mangaluru within 15 days, bringing together elected representatives, tourism officials, and stakeholders from the three districts to chart a comprehensive action plan. The proposal for the CTDB has already been included in the Karnataka Tourism Policy 2024–25.
Board to plan and implement projects
“The primary objective of the board is to prepare and execute detailed action plans to boost tourism across coastal Karnataka. It will have the authority to take up special initiatives, develop infrastructure and ensure coordination among various agencies,” said D’Souza. He also urged the government to convene a meeting of potential investors in Mangaluru to discuss opportunities in the tourism sector.
The MLC highlighted that in 2023, coastal Karnataka witnessed a footfall of over eight crore tourists, accounting for nearly 15 per cent of all visitors to the state. He stressed that the board would play a crucial role in tapping this potential by creating a master plan focused on sustainable and planned tourism development.
Government’s vision for coastal tourism
The government aims to position coastal Karnataka as a world-class destination by leveraging its 320 km-long seashore and introducing amusement parks, adventure sports, water sports and cultural programmes. Efforts will also be made to attract foreign tourists by showcasing the region’s natural beauty, heritage and recreational offerings.
D’Souza revealed that the government intends to bring at least ten major tourism projects to the region in the near future, further enhancing its appeal to both domestic and international travellers.
Call for dedicated land bank
Karnataka Legislative Assembly Speaker U T Khader emphasised the need for a dedicated land bank to support tourism projects. “Investors require ready-to-use land. They cannot afford delays caused by prolonged acquisition processes. A designated authority, similar to the Karnataka Industrial Areas Development Board (KIADB), should acquire both government and private land specifically for tourism purposes,” Khader stated.
He further urged Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Deputy CM Shivakumar to consider holding a future cabinet meeting in Mangaluru, following the upcoming one in Vijayapura. He stressed that local representatives and officials must be prepared with a comprehensive list of district-level demands by then.
Towards a global tourism hub
With the establishment of the Coastal Tourism Development Board, Karnataka is set to enhance its coastal offerings, combining infrastructure development, cultural heritage, and recreational activities. If executed effectively, the initiative could significantly boost tourism revenue and place coastal Karnataka on the global tourism map.