CoastalDevelopment – Karnataka Cabinet to Convene Historic Meeting in Mangaluru on July 29
CoastalDevelopment – The Karnataka government is set to convene its Cabinet meeting in Mangaluru on July 29, marking the first time the state’s highest decision-making body will meet in the coastal city. The move is being viewed as a significant step toward strengthening development efforts across the coastal region. Several key issues, including tourism, infrastructure, connectivity, public safety, and regional growth, are expected to feature prominently on the agenda.
Coastal Region Development to Receive Greater Attention
Health Minister UT Khader said the decision reflects the government’s intention to focus more closely on the development needs of coastal Karnataka. He noted that just as the Kalyana Karnataka region benefits from a dedicated development framework with institutional support and funding, the coastal belt also deserves a structured mechanism to accelerate growth.
According to Khader, the Cabinet is likely to deliberate on long-term plans covering tourism, law and order, and other development priorities. He stressed that although coastal districts perform well on several development indicators, there is still considerable scope for improving infrastructure and attracting larger investments.
Tourism and Infrastructure Projects on the Agenda
Khader highlighted the importance of improving transport infrastructure to support tourism. He said better roads and planned land acquisition for future projects would make the coastal region more accessible and attractive to visitors, ultimately benefiting local businesses and employment.
Among the major proposals expected to be discussed is the expansion of the Mangala Corniche Road. Puttur MLA Ashok Rai said a detailed project report has already been prepared for the estimated Rs 1,000 crore project, which aims to widen the 10-kilometre coastal road to 100 feet. If approved, the project could be completed over the next three years and is expected to encourage investment along the seafront.
Tulu Language and Cultural Promotion
Ashok Rai also reiterated the demand for granting Tulu additional official language status in Karnataka. He said such recognition would enable students from coastal districts to write examinations in Tulu, offering greater academic opportunities while preserving the region’s linguistic heritage.
The promotion of Kambala, the traditional buffalo race associated with coastal Karnataka, is also expected to come up during discussions. Regional leaders have been seeking its inclusion in tourism promotion initiatives to showcase the area’s unique cultural traditions and attract more visitors.
Airport Expansion Plans Under Consideration
Another important proposal likely to be reviewed is the expansion of the runway at Mangaluru airport. Plans are being considered to extend the existing 2.6-kilometre runway to 3.5 kilometres, allowing larger aircraft, including Boeing models, to operate from the airport.
According to Ashok Rai, the Adani Group has expressed its willingness to contribute Rs 75 crore towards the airport’s development. While the state government already owns around 13 acres required for the project, additional land acquisition will be necessary before construction can move forward.
Measures for Public Safety and Governance
A senior government official said the state has already established a dedicated Task Force aimed at preventing hate crimes and incidents linked to religious or revenge-based violence in coastal Karnataka. Alongside maintaining law and order, the government is now focusing on policies that support infrastructure expansion and tourism-led economic growth across the region.
BJP Seeks Relaxation of Existing Regulations
Meanwhile, BJP MLA from Karkala and former minister V Sunil Kumar urged the government to simplify regulations related to sand mining, revenue administration, and urban development. He argued that instead of introducing new policies, easing existing rules would help address long-standing concerns more effectively.
Sunil Kumar said similar demands have been raised on several occasions in the past but have yet to produce meaningful changes. He expressed hope that the Cabinet meeting in Mangaluru would provide an opportunity to take practical decisions benefiting the coastal districts.