Mangaluru Enforces Stricter Safety Protocols for Beachside Homestays

In response to recent incidents affecting tourist safety, Mangaluru City Police have implemented enhanced safety measures for beachside homestays within city limits. This initiative follows the alleged rape of an Israeli tourist near Hampi, prompting the home department to issue comprehensive guidelines for homestay and resort owners to ensure tourist protection. A key directive mandates obtaining permission from police or forest departments before escorting tourists to secluded or forested areas.

During a recent meeting at the city police commissioner's office, attended by Deputy Commissioner Mullai Muhilan MP, City Police Commissioner Anupam Agrawal, and tourism department officials, homestay owners were instructed to prominently display beach safety guidelines. These guidelines encompass warnings about beach depths, shallow waters, safe zones, tide schedules, and monsoon restrictions. Additionally, contact details of the nearest police station must be visibly posted on the premises. Homestays and resorts are also required to adhere to fire safety norms, conduct thorough background checks of staff, install CCTV cameras at strategic locations with footage retention for at least 30 days, and enforce stringent safety protocols for swimming pools. Compliance with a 24-point checklist, including guest identification verification and prohibition of unauthorized liquor sales or rave parties, is mandatory.