Mangaluru: In a significant announcement, Karnataka Legislative Assembly Speaker U T Khader confirmed that a state cabinet meeting will soon be held in Mangaluru, following the upcoming session scheduled in Bijapur. The decision marks a major step towards addressing long-pending demands of Dakshina Kannada district and accelerating infrastructure and tourism projects in the coastal region.
Speaking to reporters at the Circuit House on Thursday, Khader stated that both the chief minister and deputy chief minister had responded positively to the proposal. “Cabinet meetings have previously been organised in Kalaburagi, Chamarajanagar and Chikkaballapur. After Bijapur, Mangaluru will host the cabinet, and several key developmental issues are expected to be addressed,” he said.
Comprehensive agenda for district development
Khader urged people’s representatives and district officials to prepare a detailed list of priority projects and requirements ahead of the meeting. The agenda is expected to include road connectivity, housing, sand and laterite stone availability, tourism promotion and technology-driven public safety measures.
Coastal tourism projects in pipeline
Highlighting tourism initiatives, Khader revealed that a high-level meeting chaired by Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar had proposed multiple projects to boost coastal tourism. One of the key plans includes constructing a twin-lane bridge from Kotepura to Bolara, stretching 1.5 km, at an estimated cost of ₹200 crore.
Additionally, three tourist viewing decks costing ₹33 crore and a connectivity link to a nearby island have been proposed. The project report has been submitted to Nabard for approval, after which tendering will begin. Authorities are also considering designating a few hours on Sundays to keep the bridge free of vehicular movement, allowing families to enjoy scenic views and leisure activities.
AI-based security system for Mangaluru
In another major development, Khader announced that an advanced AI-based security system worth approximately ₹60 crore is planned for Mangaluru assembly constituency. With support from leading technology firms, including Infosys, AI-powered CCTV cameras will be deployed at strategic locations to enhance surveillance and safety.
He urged local industries, healthcare institutions and other stakeholders to extend financial and logistical support to ensure early implementation of the project.
Sand and laterite supply addressed
On the issue of construction material shortages, Khader said that multiple meetings had been conducted to streamline sand and laterite stone supply. He stressed that while illegal quarrying had been curbed, quicker approval of licenses was essential to meet housing needs in the district.
“Laterite is vital for local house construction. Licenses should be cleared within one month of application, and royalty should not be charged at the same rate as other quarrying activities. Inspections will be completed within a week, and final decisions will be taken in the meeting on September 4,” he stated.
Commonwealth Parliamentary Association conference
Khader also highlighted preparations for the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) India Regional Conference, which will be held in Bengaluru from September 11–14. Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla will preside over the event, which will be attended by parliamentary representatives from nine Commonwealth nations. Post-conference visits to Chamundi Hills, Mysuru Palace and Brindavan Gardens are planned for the delegates.
Call for cultural sensitivity and efficient governance
In conclusion, Khader urged officials to ensure that festival-related regulations are implemented with sensitivity to local traditions and culture, avoiding unnecessary disruptions to community celebrations.
The upcoming cabinet meeting in Mangaluru is expected to provide a decisive platform for addressing key infrastructure gaps, promoting tourism, and strengthening public safety through technology-driven initiatives.