Udupi: MLA Raghupathi Bhat said Udupi district’s ample tourism potential should be tapped to attract more visitors.

Inaugurating World Tourism Day celebrations, Bhat said tourism sector was massively hit by Covid-19 pandemic. But there seems gradual recovery and taking steps to boost tourism in district is the need of the hour, he added.

The prevailing condition is apt to develop hidden tourist spots. Tourism task force has been set up in the district and the committee members should deliberate on different opportunities. The decisions taken in the meeting should be submitted to government, he added.

Deputy Commissioner Kurma Rao said that district has areas that are diverse in culture and traditions that are unique to this region. A workshop by experts in the field will be held in the coming days to draw a tourism map.

Udupi Zilla Panchayat Chief Executive Officer Dr Naveen Bhat said there are more than 100 tourist destinations in coastal Karnataka. Emphasis should be on introducing rustic culture and traditions. The resorts and hotels should provide information on the local heritage. Importance should be given to maintenance of cleanliness and hygiene, he added.