Mangaluru: In a significant development for residents of Bajpe and surrounding areas, the 473rd retail outlet of Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL) was inaugurated on March 28, 2026. The new fuel station, operating under the banner of ‘Kala Aradhana Enterprises’, was blessed and inaugurated by Most Rev. Dr Peter Paul Saldanha, Bishop of Mangalore.
The outlet is expected to cater to the growing fuel demands of the region and improve accessibility for commuters along this busy corridor.
Formal inauguration and blessing ceremony
The inauguration ceremony began with the ribbon cutting by Very Rev. Msgr Maxim L. Noronha, Vicar General of the Diocese of Mangalore, along with Mr Yogesh Patidar (DRSH, MDO) of IOCL.
Following this, Bishop Peter Paul Saldanha, accompanied by IOCL officials Mr Ankesh Kumar (MGR-RS, MDO) and Mr Dinesh Kumar Meena (MGR-RS, DK South RSA), formally inaugurated the fuel pumps and declared the outlet open for public service.
The Bishop led a prayer service, blessing the infrastructure, machinery, and all those associated with the facility. Students of Kripa Sadhana Formation House enhanced the occasion with devotional hymns, creating a solemn and celebratory atmosphere.
‘Work is worship,’ says Bishop
In his keynote address, Bishop Saldanha reflected on the deeper meaning of service and work, drawing inspiration from the name ‘Kala Aradhana’.
He stated that service itself is a form of art and worship, emphasising that when work is carried out with honesty and dedication, it becomes meaningful and spiritually fulfilling. He encouraged the staff of the outlet to view their responsibilities as a service to the community.
IOCL highlights commitment to region
Representing IOCL, Mr Yogesh Patidar reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to delivering quality fuel and efficient services.
He noted that the retail outlet has been strategically established to meet the needs of Bajpe residents and the large number of commuters in the area. The new facility is expected to enhance convenience and support the region’s growing infrastructure.
Acknowledgements and community support
During the event, Bishop Saldanha honoured IOCL officials, donors, and financial sponsors who contributed to the successful completion of the project.
Rev. Fr Maxim Rosario, Trustee of Kala Aradhana Enterprises and Estate Manager of the Diocese, delivered the vote of thanks. He expressed gratitude to various government departments, local authorities, and the Mangaluru City Corporation for their cooperation.
He also extended special appreciation to Rev. Fr Kevin D’Souza, Director of Kripa Sadhana and Working Manager of the fuel station, for his dedicated supervision.
Dignitaries and public participation
The event was attended by several dignitaries, including diocesan leaders such as Very Rev. Dr Victor George D’Souza (Chancellor), Very Rev. Rudolf Ravi D’Sa (Vicar Vara), and Very Rev. Fr Andrew D’Souza (Parish Priest, Bajpe Church).
Trustees of Kala Aradhana Enterprises, including Rev. Fr Maxim Rosario, Rev. Dr Praveen Leo Lasrado, and Rev. Fr Trishan D’Souza, were also present.
The programme was compered by Ms Venisha Saldanha, accountant of the fuel station. A large number of priests, religious sisters, local well-wishers, and Bajpe residents attended the ceremony, welcoming the new facility as an important addition to the locality.
Conclusion
The inauguration of the IOCL retail outlet at Bajpe marks a key step in enhancing fuel accessibility and infrastructure in the region. With strong community support and institutional collaboration, the facility is set to serve as a vital hub for residents and travellers alike.
