MLA Umanath Kotian Slams Mangaluru Airport Management Over Local Issues

Mangalore Today News Network

Mangaluru, August 30, 2026: Mulki-Moodbidri MLA Umanath Kotian has criticised the management of Mangaluru International Airport, alleging that it is adopting a “dictatorial approach” and ignoring local issues.

Speaking at the Dakshina Kannada District Development Coordination and Monitoring (DISHA) Committee meeting at the Zilla Panchayat’s Netravathi Hall on Saturday, Kotian alleged that airport authorities were causing inconvenience to local residents and showing little regard for elected representatives.

“Let it be remembered that the airport has not been sold to the Adani Group. It has only been given on lease,” he said.

Kotian alleged that a welcome signboard installed on Town Panchayat land along the airport road for tourists visiting Tulunadu was removed and replaced with a jewellery advertisement. Though the airport authorities had promised to reinstall it within 15 days, two years had passed without action, he claimed.

He also raised concerns over charges imposed on auto-rickshaw drivers picking up passengers at the airport. Taxi operators, despite paying more than ₹18 lakh, were allegedly not being provided adequate parking facilities, he said.

Kotian further alleged that the airport authorities had failed to address the problem of rainwater entering nearby houses.

He urged the district administration to convene a meeting under the leadership of the MP and Deputy Commissioner to resolve the issues.