Mangaluru: The Kanara Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) has urged the Karnataka government to adopt a phased, mission-mode strategy to transform Mangaluru and coastal Karnataka into a major national and international tourism destination.In a letter to Energy and Tourism Minister KJ George, KCCI president PB Ahmed Mudassar outlined a comprehensive tourism and infrastructure roadmap. The chamber called for the development of more Blue Flag-certified beaches, professionally managed tourism information centres at key transit points, and the modernisation of KSRTC bus stands and railway stations to international standards.KCCI proposed creating at least two iconic attractions in Dakshina Kannada and redeveloping the historic Bunder port area into a waterfront heritage and cultural district while preserving its maritime character. It also suggested establishing a leisure marina at Ullal or another suitable location to promote yachting, recreational boating, coastal tourism and maritime activities, with the potential to support connectivity to Lakshadweep and other destinations.The chamber sought a comprehensive river tourism policy to encourage private investment in jetties, boathouses, houseboats, kayaking, sailing, angling, fishing, onboard dining and day cruises, along with streamlined regulatory approvals.Among other proposals are the development of Sasihitlu as a world-class waterfront destination and the revival of Pilikula as an integrated “Mangaluru Experience Centre” showcasing local cuisine, culture, folk traditions and heritage. KCCI also urged the government to restore inland rivers and ensure future infrastructure projects, including bridges and highways, accommodate inland navigation needs.To improve connectivity, KCCI sought state intervention with the Centre to secure international port and port-of-call status for New Mangalore Port and expedite land transfer for runway expansion at Mangaluru airport. It also called for recognition of the airport as a point of call to boost international air connectivity and tourist arrivals. The chamber urged the Port Authority and Tourism Department to attract more international cruise liners through curated tourism itineraries and stronger global promotion. It also highlighted the potential of medical tourism.KCCI further backed the proposed transfer of the Mangaluru railway network to Mysuru division of South Western Railway and sought better rail links with Shivamogga, Hubballi and other cities. It called for additional premium and semi-high-speed train services to major destinations and proposed tourism-focused rail experiences, including Vistadome services. The chamber also sought more direct flights from Mangaluru to cities such as Coimbatore, Hubballi, Pune, Chennai, Hyderabad, Kolkata, Kochi and Ahmedabad.
