Despite identifying nearly 106 tourist destinations and preparing to launch a district tourism map, tourist guide and dedicated tourism website, several tourism development projects in Mandya district have hit a roadblock owing to tender-related hurdles.
This was highlighted at a review meeting in Mandya chaired by Deputy Commissioner Kumar, who instructed officials on the steps to be taken in light of poor bidder response to multiple e-tenders — most notably for the Sound and Light show at Srirangapatna fort.
Yatrinivas in Melukote
With no bidders for the Tourism Department’s tender to manage the Yatrinivas at Melukote, the Deputy Commissioner directed that its maintenance be handed over to the executive officer of the Religious Endowment Department.
As the tender for managing the Sound and Light show also received zero participation, Dr. Kumar suggested submitting a proposal to the government seeking grants so that the District Tourism Development Committee (DTDC) can operate the facility directly.
Kokkare Bellur interpretation centre
No bidders came forward to manage the interpretation centre at Kokkare Bellur in Maddur taluk, a popular spot for migratory birds. Officials were asked to seek government clarification to hand over the centre to World Wide Fund for Nature-India for proper upkeep.
Although two bidders responded to the tender for managing the Yatrinivas near the Mulukattamma Temple in Nagamangala, both failed to submit mandatory documents. With the bids deemed technically invalid, the Deputy Commissioner ordered the cancellation of the tender and called for a fresh tender through DTDC.
Dr. Kumar noted that Mandya has been identified as having the highest number of tourist destinations in the State. Under the Tourism Policy 2024–29, all 106 locations have been officially recognised. A dedicated tourism website — the district’s first — along with a tourism map and visitor guide, has been developed and will be launched soon, he informed.
The meeting also reviewed encroachment clearance along the Cauvery riverbanks.
Senior officials, including Additional Superintendent of Police Gangadhara Swamy, Zilla Panchayat Deputy Secretary-1 Shivalingiah, Deputy Director of Tourism Raghavendra, and Pollution Control Board Deputy Director Geetha, were present.
Published – December 09, 2025 06:48 pm IST
