Udupi: The Coastal Security Police have directed all water sports and boating operators functioning within their jurisdiction to obtain or renew the required licences within the stipulated time, warning that strict legal action will be initiated against those operating without valid permissions. The advisory follows the fatal boat accident near Kodibengre Delta Beach earlier this year, which claimed two lives.
Police said operators must secure approvals from the concerned government departments before conducting water sports or boating activities to ensure passenger safety and compliance with regulations.
Warning follows fatal Kodibengre boat accident
The police issued the directive in the aftermath of the tragic boat accident that occurred on January 26 near Kodibengre Delta Beach.
According to the investigation, 28 tourists travelled from Kodibengre Delta Beach to the Padukere ‘Dawn View’ point in two boats owned by Suhas and Sufiyan.
While returning, one of the boats reportedly capsized in rough sea conditions near Delta Beach Cross in Kanyana village, resulting in the deaths of Sindhu and Shankarappa.
Following the incident, a case was registered at the Kota Police Station. Police said the investigation has been completed and a charge sheet has been filed against three accused before the competent court.
Majority of operators now hold licences
According to the Coastal Security Police, there were 227 registered water sports boat owners operating within their jurisdiction.
Initially, only 42 operators possessed valid licences, while 185 boat owners were operating without obtaining all the mandatory permissions required from various government departments.
To improve compliance, police conducted awareness meetings with boat owners and operators across all nine Coastal Security Police Stations, explaining the legal requirements and safety measures that must be followed.
As a result of these efforts, 151 of the 227 registered operators have now obtained the required licences.
Seventy-six operators yet to renew permits
Despite repeated reminders and sufficient time being provided for licence renewal, 76 boat owners have still not completed the renewal process.
Police said no information has been received from the concerned operators regarding the status of their pending licence renewals.
Officials stressed that operating water sports or boating services without valid permissions amounts to a violation of the law and compromises passenger safety.
Strict action against violators
The Coastal Security Police have instructed all water sports and boating operators to obtain or renew their licences before resuming commercial operations.
Officials warned that strict legal action would be initiated against those found conducting unauthorised activities after the prescribed deadline.
Police also stated that boat owners operating without valid licences would be held responsible for any accidents or untoward incidents arising from such illegal operations.
The department reiterated that adherence to safety regulations and licensing requirements is essential to prevent tragedies and ensure safe tourism activities along the coast.