Udupi: Deputy commissioner Swaroopa TK Saturday directed tourism stakeholders to prepare and present a comprehensive roadmap for the development of eco-friendly tourism in Udupi district.Chairing a meeting at the DC office in Rajathadri, she said Udupi’s scenic beaches, the Western Ghats, forests, waterfalls and prominent religious centres attract thousands of tourists every year. Before taking up tourism development activities, she said priority must be given to basic infrastructure such as drinking water, toilets, parking and accommodation at tourist destinations.Referring to earlier directions, the DC asked the stakeholder team to submit a detailed report on key focus areas supporting tourism development by April 10.Noting a steady increase in tourist footfall, she said providing information on both popular and lesser-known destinations, along with details of local accommodation, would encourage visitors to stay longer in the district. This would help boost revenue and expand the tourism sector.She also stressed the need to identify and develop new tourist spots and improve accessibility. Nearly 90% of tourists visiting the district are unaware of its tourism potential, she said, and called for effective use of social media platforms such as Facebook and Instagram to promote destinations.Swaroopa said Udupi has the potential to emerge as a leading tourist destination if its culture, traditions, unique practices, religious significance and cuisine are promoted effectively. She urged stakeholders to develop innovative ideas and proposals.The meeting also discussed strategies to promote Udupi district at the national and international levels.Assistant director of tourism Vindhya NM, tourism stakeholders and other officials were present.
