Central Govt unhappy with Karnataka over Hampi issue

New Delhi, May 9 (UNI) The Central Government has expressed dissatisfaction over Karnataka's inability to provide 50 sq KM area around famous Hampi, the seat of Vijay Nagar empire, for developing it as a world heritage site.

The Centre's disappointment was conveyed by Union Culture Minister Ambika Soni when Karnataka Planning and Science and Technology Minister and State Special Representative Mahima Patel met her to seek help to develop Science Centres in the state through National Council of Science Museums.

Ms Soni said Karnataka was not ''responding'' to the proposal to keep the local population out of the area as it can be developed into a number one tourist spot of the country.

The site has been chosen as the 'World Heritage Site' by the UNESCO and two Union Tourism Ministers including Ms Soni and her predecessor Mr Jagmohan have visited it.

Hampi attracted many visitors in the past including Chinese visitor Hu-en-Song who has recorded the Vijay Nagar glory in his writings.

The minister told them that Jindal group had a plan to set up a five star hotel in the area catering to the needs of the foreign tourists.

Meanwhile, Mr Gowda and Mr Patel assured the Union Minister that they would convey her sentiments to Chief Minister H D Kumarswami on their return to Bangalore.

UNI