Udupi : The district administration has planned to implement projects that would make the most of as well as enhance the tourism potential of the Malpe harbour.

The development of the harbour is designed in phases. Deputy Commissioner Dr Vishal R has said that there are a number of religious centres and beaches in the district.

“Development of tourism – and, thereby, attracting a large number of visitors – would only aid the plans to utilise them as a source of revenue. The sea, supported by the beach is always an attractive destination for tourists. Water sports, for instance, could be added to the sources of revenue,” explained the deputy commissioner.

The district administration is, at present, hoping to lure visitors to beaches, and also popularise Malpe harbour as a tourist spot at State and national-levels. Although open-sea competitions are risky, when carefully organised and handled, they create wonders and have great opportunities to become one of the most adventurous sports activities. Open-sea swimming will be promoted at Malpe. Competitions will organised with the support of trainers and appropriate safety measures like appointment of lifeguards.

The deputy commissioner added that a concrete proposal to popularise the beaches is being prepared for the final consideration.

To test the feasibility of the idea, the district administration – in association with the District Department of Sports and Youth Services – had organised a mock event at Malpe harbour recently. As many as 66 participants competed in the 16th State Short-course Swimming Championship at the Ajjarkadu swimming pool too.

The deputy commissioner also said that the overall response from the participants was positive and they were eager to take part in such activities at State and national-levels.

The City Municipal Council Commissioner – who is also the Malpe Development Committee secretary – would coordinate with the police as well as the lifeguard personnel to conduct the sports activities. The Department of Sports and Youth Services officials would take up the responsibility of organising the event. Once the concept is institutionalised, the district administration will work towards ensuring a healthy lifestyle and sports activities for the people of the district, the official said.

Roshan Shetty, officer of the District Department of Sports and Youth Services said that the Karnataka State Swimming Association has been requested to give a detailed estimate project plan at the earliest.

“Once the plan is approved, a couple of sittings would be held to formulate the plans. The competitions will be held on various dates for both boys and girls. The distance for the swimming contest would be anywhere between one kilometre and five or 10 kilometres, depending on the age criterion. The plans would be chalked out to organise the event in February or by April, depending upon the leisure time of the swimmers in State. They are busy participating in the south zone-level competition currently,” he added.

The officer said that the online registration would be considered for the competitions and the number of participants would be restricted to around 400.

Shetty added a major concern remained the condition of sea, with regard to safety aspect. “The sea will leave its impact whenever climatic changes occur at the coast. A similar competition was held at Goa last year,” he said.