Sir,

This is with reference to Tourism Director’s statement on boosting tourism in Mysuru (SOM dated Oct. 27). Genuine Indian and international tourists love to see natural beauties as it is. They don’t appreciate decoration, but basic facility. At present, the facility standard provided in popular tourist places is really poor. There is not a single decent toilet, right from City/Suburban Bus Stand both for men and women up to popular tourist spots, even after paying hefty amount. There is no proper vehicle parking facility at all within city. First, it is required to be ascertained whether every tourist place has a definite tourism holding capacity.

Mysureans/daily commuters/students are afraid of travelling in city and tourist destinations on weekdays followed by long weekends, because of traffic chaos. These are to be given priority before expanding the visiting locations.

For boating, Varuna Lake and part of Karanji Lake are dedicated based on perennial water augmentation. Kukkarahalli and Lingambudhi Lakes are biodiversity rich locations, where interested tourists can walk and enjoy rich natural heritage; going in boat and disturbing the bird activity is not called for.  Rush on Saturday and Sunday morning makes one to avoid these serene locations.

One should understand what natural heritage is and how to showcase it to tourists without degrading two century-old Lakes. Forest Department of previous government brought out a survey that pointed out degrading status of Lakes and Tanks in Mysuru District.

Existing Kukkarahalli and Lingambudhi Lakes are fine without any permanent buildings within, and enormous flora and fauna.  Just opening the public toilet locks in these two locations and maintain it after usage is what is needed now, which has not happened so far after construction. Without understanding the study reports submitted, ground realities, local problems, and environmental issues, just bringing out an ill-devised master plan won’t bring prosperity but misery to Mysuru City.

In Manali, Himachal Pradesh, locals are up in arms and repeated protests are being held against excess tourism, from the people who welcomed it ! Their vehicles’ quota per day is fixed and only those many tourists are allowed. One cannot plan or conceive master plan to feed or support this mushrooming and ill-conceived growth.

– A. Shivaprakash, Mysuru, 29.10.2018

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