Finance Minister Y. Ramakrishnudu on Monday said the potential of rural and temple tourism was yet to be tapped in the State, which could lead to a significant development in the sector.
Mr. Ramakrishnudu and Irrigation Minister D. Uma Maheswara Rao addressed the gathering under umbrellas from the open stage as rain played spoilsport on the last day of the three-day Masula beach festival at Manginapudi.
“The tourism sector will be able to contribute in a big way to the State’s economy. The immediate plans are to prepare a tourism development plan and giving a fillip to temple and rural tourism across the State,” said Mr. Ramakrishnudu.
Responding to a request by Law Minister K. Ravindra to develop the Manginapudi beach, the Finance Minister sanctioned ₹20 crore for completing the 5 km road that connects Machilipatnam with the beach.
Mr. Uma Maheswara Rao promised to speed up the Machilipatnam deep sea port and gathering of land for other industries, including a proposal for setting up a logistics hub in 1,000 acres by the Container Corporation of India Limited in Machilipatnam.
100-feet dosa
Meanwhile, in an attempt to set a record, Machilipatnam-based chefs on Monday prepared a 100-feet dosa which drew the attention of the visitors. Anup Rubens entertained the crowd with his music. Showers during the closing ceremony of the beach festival forced the visitors to leave the venue early.
Collector B. Lakshmikantam and other officials monitored the situation to avoid any untoward incidents.
