109 illegal homestays, 21 resorts shut down in Udupi: Officials tell Upa Lokayukta

Mangalore Today News Network

Bengaluru, August 9, 2026: Authorities have shut down 109 homestays and 21 resorts in Udupi district for operating in violation of regulations, officials informed Upalokayukta Justice B. Veerappa.

The Udupi Assistant Commissioner, Deputy Director of Tourism, MESCOM Executive Engineer, Deputy Superintendent of Police and Udupi Taluk Panchayat Executive Officer submitted a joint statement before the Upalokayukta on the action taken.

The Upalokayukta had taken suo motu cognisance of complaints regarding illegal homestays and resorts and the alleged discharge of untreated sewage and waste into the sea. He subsequently conducted a surprise inspection of the district.

Officials said 227 homestays and 42 resorts are currently operating with the required licences and permissions. The remaining 109 homestays and 21 resorts found to be operating illegally have been closed.

The Upalokayukta directed officials to strictly implement the State Government’s April 27 circular and April 29, 2026 guidelines on the operation, safety and security of homestays and bed-and-breakfast establishments.

He also ordered the formation of a committee headed by the Assistant Commissioner to inspect sewage treatment plants (STPs) across the district.

During his earlier inspection, Justice Veerappa had expressed concern over the inadequate treatment of sewage and wastewater in Udupi and their alleged discharge into the sea, warning of potential damage to marine life, groundwater and the surrounding environment.

He had also flagged deficiencies at the sewage treatment plant in Nittur. The inspection reportedly found the biochemical oxygen demand (BOD) level to be more than 10 points above the prescribed limit.

Officials found that inadequately treated water was flowing from the plant into drains connected to the Indrani River, which eventually meets the sea near Kalmadi Bridge and Bapu Thota near Malpe.

The Upalokayukta expressed concern over the environmental impact of untreated sewage reaching the sea. The next hearing in the case has been scheduled for September 29.