Rs 186 crore sanctioned for underground power line system in Ullal: U.T. Khader

Mangalore Today News Network

Mangaluru, Feb 7, 2026: An amount of Rs 186 crore has been sanctioned for implementing an underground electricity distribution system in Ullal city, and the tender process will be completed soon, following which the works will begin, said Karnataka Legislative Assembly Speaker and Mangaluru MLA U.T. Khader.

Speaking to reporters at the Circuit House here, Khader said the project aims to enhance the city’s aesthetics and address long-standing issues such as high-tension power lines passing over houses and electric poles located inside residential compounds. The project is expected to be completed within two years and will help develop Ullal as a model city, he added.

To prevent power shortages in the Mangaluru constituency in the coming years, Rs 96 crore has been sanctioned to upgrade the 32 kV power transmission system to 110 kV. The project has been designed to ensure uninterrupted power supply for the next 30 years, even with the establishment of new industries, housing projects, and development activities, Khader said.

He also informed that funds amounting to Rs 252 crore have been approved for the construction of the Kotekar–Ullal connecting bridge, and tenders will be floated shortly. The proposed 1.5-km-long bridge, connecting villages rather than highways, is among the largest of its kind and is expected to significantly boost tourism. In addition, a Rs 6 crore project has been planned for setting up hotels, restaurants, and boat jetties near the bridge.

Khader said efforts are underway to develop villages such as Thumbe and Meramajalu, which were recently added to the Mangaluru constituency following delimitation. He noted that the Harekala–Thumbe bridge has already been completed, and funds of Rs 62 crore have been sanctioned for the Sajipa–Thumbe connecting bridge.

Responding to queries about remarks made by MLA Shivalingegowda during the last Assembly session, Khader said such comments should not have been made. “MLAs must be aware of laws and rules and exercise caution while speaking in the House, as people closely observe their conduct. Elected representatives should not act in a manner that disrespects their constituency or district,” he said.

Clarifying reports that the Chief Minister had criticised the Speaker during a disruption in the Assembly, Khader said no such statement was made. He explained that the Chief Minister had only remarked that it was inappropriate for members to disrupt proceedings, adding that the Speaker must manage the House in a balanced manner.

On reports of plans to set up another toll gate on the Mangaluru–Bengaluru National Highway, Khader said local MLAs and MPs should discuss the issue and provide clarity to the public. He added that before commencing any national highway project, an MoU is signed between the district administration and the National Highways Authority, and elected representatives should study these details and inform the public accordingly.