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.
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. 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. KCCI also urged the government to restore inland rivers and ensure future infrastructure projects, including bridges and highways, accommodate inland navigation needs.