Karnataka Cabinet meet in Mangaluru to prioritise coastal infrastructure development: Minister UT Khader

Karnataka Cabinet meet in Mangaluru to prioritise coastal infrastructure development: Minister UT Khader

Mangalore Today News Network

Mangaluru, Sep 12, 2026: The Karnataka Cabinet meeting scheduled to be held in Mangaluru on September 18 will focus on infrastructure and development priorities in the coastal districts, including roads, fisheries, tourism and industrial development, said Dakshina Kannada district in-charge Minister U.T. Khader.

Speaking after a meeting with representatives of industrial and fisheries organisations, tourism entrepreneurs and officials at the Deputy Commissioner’s office on Friday, Khader said the government would focus on addressing key infrastructure and development requirements of the coastal region.

Several representations had been received regarding the shortage of land for industrial development in Dakshina Kannada, he said, adding that the government would explore establishing new industrial areas to meet the demand.

“Road and other infrastructure development will also be given priority. A proposal seeking ₹28 crore for road development in the Baikampady Industrial Area has already been submitted to the state government,” Khader said.

He directed officials to submit a proposal for establishing a hostel near the Baikampady Industrial Area for apprentices undergoing training there. Representatives of the Kanara Small Industries Association had raised the issue during the meeting.

Fishermen leaders Chetan Bengre and Mohan Bengre highlighted the shortage of berthing space at the fisheries harbour, stating that the presence of large boats was making it difficult for smaller vessels to enter and berth.

They urged the government to establish fishing jetties at Kasaba Bengre, Hosabettu, Tannirbhavi and Kotepura and sought priority for dredging works in the river.

Deputy Commissioner Darshan H.V. said plans were being considered to develop tourism infrastructure on 150 acres under the jurisdiction of the New Mangalore Port Authority (NMPA). Discussions had already been held with the NMPA in this regard, he said.

Proposals have also been submitted to the government for the development of the old Deputy Commissioner’s office premises, an elephant camp, revision of Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) rules and development of coastal roads, among other projects, Darshan said.

Khader directed officials to prepare a proposal to develop the Thokkottu–Mudipu–Melkar road as an education, healthcare, religious and IT corridor, while improving its connectivity to Bengaluru and Kerala.

MUDA Chairman Santhosh Kumar Shetty, ZP CEO Narwade Vinayak Karbhari, Police Commissioner Sudheer Kumar Reddy, SP Dr Arun K, MCC Commissioner Rahul Ratnam Pandey and others were present.