95 tourism projects underway in coastal Karnataka at cost of ₹126.72 crore: Minister H.K. Patil

Bengaluru January, 31: (Bhatkallys News Bureau) Karnataka Tourism Minister H.K. Patil on Wednesday said that as many as 95 tourism-related development works are being implemented across Dakshina Kannada, Udupi and Uttara Kannada districts at a total cost of ₹126.72 crore, of which ₹76.29 crore has already been released.

The minister was replying to an attention notice raised under Rule 72 by legislator Ivan D’Souza in the Legislative Assembly.

Patil said that under the Karnataka Tourism Policy, the government has identified 53 tourist destinations across the three coastal districts. He added that private entrepreneurs have been given opportunities to invest in 25 identified tourism products, with the government offering incentives, subsidies and concessions to encourage private participation.

Under the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model, the government has approved concept notes for three tourism projects in Udupi district at Trasie Beach, Kodi Beach and Barkur Fort. In Dakshina Kannada district, two projects at Kodikal and Thanneer Bavi Beach have also received approval under the same model.

The minister informed the House that tenders were called twice to appoint transaction advisors for these PPP projects. However, as the bidders were found technically unqualified, the department is now preparing to invite fresh tenders.

In Uttara Kannada district, Patil said steps are underway to prepare concept notes for PPP-based tourism development at four locations—Banavasi, Sadashivgad, Gokarna and Anegudde. Once approvals are obtained, transaction advisors will be selected through the tender process.

The minister added that these initiatives are aimed at strengthening tourism infrastructure in the coastal belt and attracting private investment to boost local employment and economic activity.