Pics: Spoorthi Ullal
Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru
Mangaluru, Oct 11: Dakshina Kannada district in-charge minister Dinesh Gundu Rao announced that the upcoming Mangaluru IT Park would become a game changer in promoting tourism and development along the coastal region.
Speaking to reporters after a review meeting with senior officials from MUDA (Mangalore Urban Development Authority) and Mangaluru City Corporation on Friday, the minister said that a master plan has been prepared to develop a 24-meter-wide coastal road from Someshwar to Sasihitlu, aimed at boosting tourism.
“The road will be developed as a beachfront and waterfront road to attract tourists. Once included in the master plan, it will provide a significant boost to tourism. Another waterfront road has also been proposed in the Kannur area to improve connectivity and expand urban access. The plan will move forward after reviewing public objections within the next two months,” he said.
The minister further stated that residential layouts are being developed in Konaje, Kunjathbail, and Chelyaru under MUDA’s jurisdiction. He directed officials to complete the Konaje project by November, as only 20% of the plots have been booked so far. Once completed, the project is expected to generate funds for completing other layouts such as Chelyaru.
He noted that issues persist in the Kunjathbail layout due to high land acquisition costs. “We must make a clear decision to avoid financial loss, as the project currently appears unviable. The Chelyaru project requires funding, which can be sourced from the Konaje layout’s revenue,” Gundu Rao explained.
Regarding Mangaluru City Corporation’s progress, the minister said that only preliminary information was available during the meeting, and a follow-up review would be conducted in November.
Gundu Rao also directed MUDA officials to ensure public convenience and efficiency in handling applications. “Officials must process applications for land conversion, NOCs, and approvals within the stipulated time. Citizens should not be forced to visit offices repeatedly. Instead of multiple inspections under urban planning, they should be consolidated into a single process. Any official found delaying approvals will face action,” he warned.
He added that the government’s focus is to make Mangaluru and Mysuru key tourism and investment destinations. “Under the leadership of the chief minister and deputy chief minister, the cabinet has approved the Rs 135 crore Mangaluru IT Park under the PPP model. This major initiative, supported by IT Minister Priyank Kharge, will create a transparent and investor-friendly environment. The demand for commercial space is growing, and this project will transform the coastal region’s tourism and investment landscape,” the minister affirmed.
Legislative Council member Manjunath Bhandary, former mayor Shashidhar Hegde, and former corporators Naveen D’Souza and Anil Kumar were present.