Colaco Proposes Coastal Development Task Force; KCCI Seeks Infrastructure Push for Dakshina Kannada

Colaco Proposes Coastal Development Task Force; KCCI Seeks Infrastructure Push for Dakshina Kannada

Mangalore Today News Network

Mangaluru, Sep 13, 2026: NRI entrepreneur Ronald Colaco has proposed the formation of a high-level Karnataka Coastal Tourism and Commercial Development Task Force to prepare a long-term development strategy for Dakshina Kannada, Udupi and Uttara Kannada districts.

In a proposal submitted to Chief Minister D K Shivakumar, Tourism Minister K J George and other Cabinet members on Friday, Colaco suggested a 12- to 15-member expert panel to prepare a 20- to 25-year integrated master plan for coastal tourism and commercial development.

Entrepreneur Ronald Colaco and KCCI President P B Ahmed Mudassar

The plan would identify zones for beach tourism, resorts, convention centres, wellness and medical tourism, marinas, water sports, logistics, fisheries infrastructure, cultural tourism and eco-tourism. It would also examine the potential for waterfront promenades, tourism villages, recreational boating, cruise facilities and coastal entertainment districts.

Meanwhile, the Kanara Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) has submitted a memorandum to Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar seeking urgent measures to address infrastructure and industrial development issues in Dakshina Kannada.

KCCI President P B Ahmed Mudassar said the government should expedite the acquisition of 1,050 acres at Balkunje for MSME development. The chamber also sought the repossession of 400 acres of unused JESCO land and 50 acres of KISCO land for MSME activities.

For the Baikampady Industrial Area, KCCI called for priority to be given to an underground drainage system alongside the proposed ₹50-crore water treatment plant. It also sought underground power cabling and urgent repairs to damaged industrial roads, including the ODC Road.

The chamber further proposed an Integrated Multi-Modal Logistics Park and a Mangaluru International Exhibition Centre, citing the city’s port, airport and strategic location as key advantages for attracting trade, investment and industrial activity.