The long-awaited development of the multi-level car parking facility at Hampankatta has recommenced, with the project now set to accommodate 400 vehicles. Initially launched in November 2021, construction faced significant delays and was temporarily halted due to technical issues, leaving the project stagnant for over three years.
The MLCP project, undertaken by Mangaluru Smart City Limited (MSCL) under a public-private partnership (PPP) model, is being built on the site of the old bus stand in Hampankatta, with an estimated investment of Rs 94 crore. MSCL managing director Raju K confirmed that work has now restarted and will proceed according to the original plan, with the same concessionaire in charge. “The contract period will be extended, and construction will follow the prior agreement,” he explained.
MSCL’s general manager (technical), Arun Prabha KS, stated that piling work has already begun, and the project is expected to take at least 18 months to complete. “We will accelerate progress to ensure the MLCP opens as soon as possible. A significant portion of the work is anticipated to be completed before the monsoon. We are addressing all potential risks during the initial phase of construction,” he added. Additionally, the development plans will ensure proper access to nearby commercial establishments on the road linking KS Rao Road and Hampankatta Road.
Originally planned under the Mangaluru Urban Development Authority (MUDA), the MLCP project shifted to the PPP model after Mangaluru’s selection for the central government’s Smart City Mission. The project was then incorporated into the MSCL portfolio to enhance the city’s infrastructure.
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