Mysuru: The previous BJP Government in Karnataka had prepared a blue print to develop tourism in Mysuru and surrounding areas and several programmes had been planned, said former Minister S.A. Ramdas.

He was speaking at the Mysore Travel Mart 18 and said that when BJP was in power earlier, it had created a proper atmosphere for development of tourism.

One-hundred-and-eight tourist places had been identified in and around Mysuru District and Mysuru was planned as a tourist hub. Blue prints had been prepared that included Film City and international cricket stadium for this purpose.

This had been included in CDP (Comprehensive Development Plan) and a Detailed Project Report (DPR) had also been readied. However, nothing has been done regarding this till now, he regretted.

Mysureans cursed: Industrialist Dr. M. Jagannath Shenoi said that Mysureans are a cursed lot as every government in the past and the current one have done nothing to promote and develop tourism.

Hence, tourists prefer going to Rajasthan. A situation has arisen where tourists have to wait for Saturdays and Sundays to visit Mysuru.

At least now, the Central and State Governments should make efforts to develop tourism in Mysuru, he urged.

Mysore Travels Association President B.S. Prashanth said when compared to the neighbouring States, the entry tax to tourist vehicles is more in Karnataka. In the light of this, a uniform entry tax must be imposed throughout South India.

He also demanded a convention centre for Mysuru and said since many tourists are going to Wyanad, facilities and infrastructure should be provided            to see that they are retained in Mysuru for longer stay.