Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru
Mangaluru, July 3: The coastal city of Mangaluru is set to host its tallest national flagpole at Bavutagudda, with a height of 295 feet (approximately 90 metres). The location for the structure has been finalised and tender procedures have been completed. Work on the project is expected to commence shortly.
The flagpole will feature a full-scale Ashoka Pillar with the four-lion emblem and Ashoka Chakra. Once completed, it will be the second tallest in Karnataka, after the 110-metre flagpole in Belagavi. The current tallest in the coastal region is the 75-metre flagpole erected at Kadri Park in September last year.
Speaking to Udayavani Sudina, MLC Manjunath Bhandary said, “The new flagpole is being constructed near the statue of freedom fighter Kedambady Ramayya Gowda, adjacent to the Bavutagudda park. I had earlier written to the urban development minister to ensure the Indian flag is permanently displayed at the tallest flagpost in the coastal region. In response, the Smart City project called for tenders, and work will begin soon.”
Why Bavutagudda?
Bavutagudda, or ‘flag hill’, holds deep historical significance. It was the site where Kedambady Ramayya Gowda led the local resistance against British rule even before the First War of Independence. He and his group of farmers captured Mangaluru from the British, hoisted a revolutionary Indian flag, and declared freedom for 13 days. The location got its name ‘Bavutagudda’ from this historic act, and officials now plan to make the name permanent by ensuring the national flag flies here year-round.
Smart City board finalised location after study
During the planning process, five locations were studied for feasibility — Kadri Park, Bavutagudda, Nehru Maidan, Mangala Stadium, and Circuit House. Based on soil structure and wind pattern studies, Bavutagudda and Kadri Park were shortlisted. The Smart City board subsequently approved flag installations at both sites.
Project details
According to Raju K, managing director of the Smart City Project, the upcoming flagpole at Bavutagudda will be the tallest in the coastal region and is being undertaken through the Smart City initiative. With the tender process complete, the construction work will begin soon.