Honnavar: Union Minister of State for Skill Development & Entrepreneurship Anant Kumar Hegde, on Thursday, assured that necessary steps would be initiated to develop the ancient Aresami tank, located near Ramateertha, as tourist spot.

Receiving the memorandum for development of the tank from Aresami Tank Development Committee and ‘Nanna Kanasina Honnavar’ members, at his residence, in Sirsi, Hegde assured them of initiating necessary steps to develop the tank at the earliest.

Aresami Tank Development Committee President Shivananda Hegde Kadatoka said, Aresami tank had a historical background. If the tank was filled with water, it would help to recharge groundwater table in and around Ramateertha besides enhancing the beauty of the area.

The tank should be developed as a tourist spot on the lines of Pilikula, he observed, adding Rs 5 crore was required for developing the tank.

Though responding to the committee’s demand, the deputy commissioner has constituted a committee of officials for development of the tank, requisite fund is required for commencement of the work, he pointed out.