Karnataka inks MoU with Air India to link Mysuru

Mysuru: Air connectivity between Mysuru and other cities will resume soon with the signing of an MoU with Air India to boost tourism in Mysuru region, said Tourism Minister Mr R.V. Deshpande.

Mr Deshpande was here to launch the much talked about Cauvery Tourism Development Authority to develop tourism in destinations in the Cauvery catchment area. The first meeting of the Authority was attended by elected representatives and officers of districts in the Cauvery catchment areas including Chamarajnagar, Mysuru, Mandya, Kodagu, and Ramanagara district. He said while air connectivity to Mysuru is not financially viable, the department of tourism has decided to provide the service by signing the MoU.

When asked about the expansion of Mysuru airport, he said the state is taking measures in this regard too. Mysuru and Bijapur will be developed as tourism destinations at a cost of '10 crore each. “To create professional guides who know about regional culture and are fluent in not just Kannada and English but also French and Japanese, we are planning to offer stipend for courses to train guides which will be launched at University of Mysore, Mangalore University, Rani Chennamma, Bangalore University and VTU,” he said.

To ensure basic infrastructure and cleanliness at tourist destinations, the government is joining hands with the corporate sector, and at least eight corporate companies have come forward to adopt various destinations. The adoption of Ranganthittu, Venkatappa Gallery and Halebeedu has almost been finalised.

“For the safety of tourists we are planning to introduce Pravasi Mithras, by deputing trained police constables in tourism spots for providing security,” he said. As for the cable car facility for Chamundi hills, the detailed pro1ject report is ready. There is no compromise on the project, Mr Deshpande said.