Mangaluru Cabinet Meeting Approves ‘Mangaluru Eye’ Tourism Project Near Kadri Park
Mangalore Today News Network
Mangaluru, Sept. 20, 2026: A five-acre plot belonging to the Horticulture Department near Kadri Park has been identified for the construction of a 42-storey landmark tower, tentatively named ‘Mangalore Eye’, as part of efforts to promote tourism in the coastal city.
According to a blueprint submitted to the Karnataka Tourism Department, the proposed 200-metre tower will be developed under a public-private partnership (PPP) model at an estimated cost of ₹350 crore.
The project is envisioned as a major tourism attraction offering panoramic views of Mangaluru and its coastline. The proposed tower will feature a lighthouse on the 42nd floor, an open terrace, observation decks, a two-level gallery with 360-degree views, a skywalk, a food court and a revolving restaurant.
Deputy Chief Minister G. Parameshwara, Dakshina Kannada district minister U.T. Khader and Minister for Small Scale Industries and Public Enterprises Vijayanand S. Kashappanavar unveiled the project poster during an event held as part of the Mangaluru Cabinet meeting on Friday.
The government is considering transferring the Horticulture Department land near Kadri Park for the project. To attract private investment, it plans to provide viability gap funding (VGF) under a revenue-sharing model. Once construction begins, the tower is expected to take at least three years to complete.
The project also envisages a commercial tower with a restaurant at the top offering visitors a special viewing experience. A vintage-style observation gallery showcasing the diversity and heritage of the coastal region is reportedly planned.
The tourism initiative is aimed at encouraging visitors who come to the coastal region for temple visits and other purposes to extend their stay in Mangaluru by a day or two.
Concerns Over Government Land
The proposed development has also raised concerns over the use of prime government land located along the Kerala-Mumbai National Highway for commercial purposes. There are allegations that some local politicians have backed the project, potentially paving the way for extensive commercial activity on government property.
At present, the site houses a skating rink used for children’s training and a BSNL office, while a large portion of the land remains vacant. The Horticulture Department also owns additional land in the vicinity of Kadri Park.
The area had earlier been considered for a bus stand. Subsequently, proposals were made for bus stands at Pumpwell and Kottara. The plan for the Kadri site was eventually dropped as its location along the national highway was considered unsuitable for bus stand operations.