No casinos in coastal Karnataka: Tourism Minister

Tourism Minister K. J. George announced that the government has no plans to promote casino culture in the name of coastal tourism development in Karnataka.

“Our aim is not to make the coast a casino hub but to develop sustainable tourism that creates employment for local people, brings direct income to fishermen and the coastal community, protect environment, and provide a good experience to tourists. Steps will be taken to make Mangaluru a major coastal and cruise tourism destination by utilising all resources – sea, river, beach and port – comprehensively,” he said on September 6 after visiting and inspecting various tourist destinations in Mangaluru.

At the same time, he clarified that no commercial lodge will be allowed in the name of homestays.

“A genuine homestay system that provides tourists with an experience of the local lifestyle and culture will be encouraged. However, large-scale commercial lodges or hotels will not be allowed in the name of homestays. The difference between homestays and commercial accommodation systems will be clearly enforced, and the prescribed guidelines will be strictly followed,” he said.

Mr. George noted that the State Government had laid special emphasis on comprehensively developing the tourism potential of the coastal and Malnad regions of Karnataka. Projects linking river tourism, cruise, houseboat, beach tourism, water sports, and local community-based tourism will be implemented in a phased manner.

As per the details, the department plans to promote houseboat tourism in Netravati river along the lines of Keralam. The Minister said, “A plan is being formulated to develop river cruise and houseboat tourism in the Netravati river. The aim is to actively involve local fishermen and people of the coastal community in these projects, and create new employment and income opportunities for them. Steps will be taken to develop cruise-related tourist zones.”

At present, efforts are being made to attract more domestic and international cruise ships by effectively utilising the capacity of the New Mangalore Port. Participation of private and international organisations will be encouraged to promote domestic cruise services in the Mangauru Karwar-Goa region. Co-ordination is being done with the Central Government for necessary permissions regarding the construction of jetties and other infrastructure required for coastal tourism.