Mangaluru to get tallest coastal flagpole at Bavutagudda

Mangalore Today News Network

Mangaluru, July 3, 2025: The coastal city of Mangaluru is poised to host its tallest national flagpole at the historic Bavutagudda, standing at an impressive height of 295 feet (approximately 90 metres). This will make it the second tallest in Karnataka, after the 110-metre-high flagpole in Belagavi. The project site has been finalised, tender processes have concluded, and construction is set to begin shortly.

The new flagpole will feature a full-scale Ashoka Pillar complete with the four-lion emblem and the Ashoka Chakra. Currently, the tallest flagpole in the coastal region stands at 75 metres and was erected at Kadri Park in September 2024.

Speaking to Udayavani Sudina, MLC Manjunath Bhandary stated, “The flagpole is being installed near the statue of freedom fighter Kedambady Ramayya Gowda, beside Bavutagudda Park. I had earlier appealed to the Urban Development Minister to ensure the Indian flag is flown year-round at the tallest mast in the coastal region. Following this, the Smart City project initiated tender procedures, and the work will begin soon.”

Why Bavutagudda?

Bavutagudda — literally ‘Flag Hill’ — holds immense historical significance. It was here that Kedambady Ramayya Gowda led a rebellion against British rule, predating the First War of Independence. Along with a group of farmers, he captured Mangaluru, hoisted a revolutionary Indian flag, and declared freedom for 13 days. This symbolic act earned the hill its name, and officials now intend to cement its legacy by ensuring the national flag flies here permanently.

Smart City Board Chose Site After Feasibility Study

As part of the Smart City Mission, a feasibility study was conducted across five potential sites: Kadri Park, Bavutagudda, Nehru Maidan, Mangala Stadium, and Circuit House. Based on factors such as soil stability and wind patterns, Bavutagudda and Kadri Park were shortlisted. The Smart City board then approved the installation of tall flagpoles at both locations.

Project Under Smart City Mission

Raju K, Managing Director of the Mangaluru Smart City Limited, confirmed that the flagpole project is being executed under the Smart City initiative. “With the tender process completed, construction at Bavutagudda will commence shortly. Once completed, this will be the tallest flagpole in the coastal region,” he added.