MANGALURU: Mangaluru is set to offer a new experience to tourists as the beaches will soon be accessible to visitors during the night. The Dakshina Kannada district administration has begun preparations to ensure the safety of visitors, including installing streetlights, setting up surveillance systems, and deploying lifeguards.
Deputy Commissioner Mullai Muhilan M.P. said that Panamburu beach will be the first to remain open at night, followed by Thannirbhavi Blue Flag beach and Thannirbhavi beach. While the plan was to open Panamburu beach by the end of this year, it was delayed. However, the beach will be ready for visitors in the next week or two, once all security measures are in place.
The decision to open the beaches at night has been long awaited, gaining momentum after the state government recently allowed businesses in Bengaluru and other city corporations to stay open until 1 am. Tourism and hospitality industry stakeholders have long advocated for this change, believing it will attract more tourists to the coastal city.
Mangaluru City Police Commissioner Anupam Agarwal expressed support for the initiative, stating that as long as safety measures like surveillance, lighting, and lifeguards are in place, there would be no issue with allowing visitors at night. However, he clarified that the 1 am closure rule for pubs, bars, and restaurants will currently only apply to Bengaluru.
Tourism industry representatives have welcomed the move, seeing it as a significant step in boosting the region's tourism appeal.
Beach Festival
As part of the ongoing Karavali Utsav, the district administration, in collaboration with Rohan Corporation, will host the Beach Festival at Thannirbhavi Beach on December 28 and 29. The festival will feature live performances by local artists, a sand sculpture competition, and water sports activities from 5:30 pm to 9 pm both days. Legislative Assembly Speaker UT Khader will inaugurate the festival on December 28 at 6:30 pm, with noted musician and singer Raghu Dixit performing on December 29 at 7:30 pm.
Organizers have made extensive arrangements for visitor parking, with separate spaces for two-wheelers and four-wheelers at four locations along Thannirbhavi Beach Road. Additionally, ferry services from Sulthan Bathery to Thannirbhavi will be increased, with mini buses to transport visitors. Extra staff will be deployed to manage traffic and ensure smooth operations.
The Deputy Commissioner also emphasized that the goal is to position Mangaluru as a top destination for year-end celebrations, with the Beach Festival being a major annual event to promote the city's tourism.