Karwar: Karwar boasts numerous tourist spots, temples, and beaches, presenting ample opportunities for further development in the realm of tourism. Deputy Commissioner Gangubai Maankar has instructed the officials of the tourism department to leverage these opportunities and implement various development projects aimed at transforming the district into the leading tourist destination in the state.

Presiding over the District Tourism Committee meeting at the District Commissioner's office hall on Tuesday, Maanakar emphasized the potential for expanding the tourist spots in the district to generate revenue and create employment opportunities. Notably, the district is home to beaches that rival those of the neighboring state of Goa. Maankar urged the identification of these beaches, provision of necessary infrastructure, and their enhancement to entice more tourists.

At Rabindranath Beach in Karwar, Maankar stressed the need for enhanced cleanliness measures, including the installation of separate garbage bins for biodegradable and non-biodegradable waste. He proposed the appointment of tourist guides to acquaint visitors with the district's various tourist attractions, along with the distribution of concise informational booklets highlighting other points of interest in the region. Additional lighting installations were recommended to ensure ample illumination at the beach during the nighttime. Manakar also proposed the installation of seating arrangements for the convenience of tourists, as well as the systematic development of the Mayura Verma platform.

Furthermore, Maankar suggested the deployment of additional cleaning and security personnel at Rabindranath Beach and the War Ship Museum, emphasizing the urgent need for necessary repairs to the warship. Regarding entry fees for the observation of these two sites, he recommended standardizing the pricing post-installation of warplanes, with priority given to the renovation of the rock garden.

The district commissioner proposed the implementation of projects aimed at securing a consistent income from tourism activities at various tourist destinations across the district. He also stressed the importance of setting rates for photography, scuba diving, and other activities where necessary, as well as issuing appropriate permits.

To ensure the safety of tourists, Maankar emphasized the installation of adequate warning signs at tourist sites and the deployment of lifeguards equipped with necessary protective gear. He called for the proper maintenance of pilgrim accommodations across the district.

A 5-day Coastal Utsav is slated to be held in January at Rabindranath Beach. Manakar highlighted the untapped potential for systematic and sustainable tourism development in the district, urging all departments to collaborate effectively towards this common goal.

Additional Deputy Commissioner Prakash Rajput, Deputy Divisional Officer Jayalakshmi Rayakode, Assistant Director of Tourism Department Baby Mogaweera and many other officials were present.