Mangaluru: Dakshina Kannada District Minister in charge Dinesh Gundu Rao on Monday instructed Mangaluru City Corporation (MCC) officials to take immediate steps to make the long-vacant Urwa Market functional. The minister visited the market building, which has remained unoccupied since its inauguration in 2019, and directed officials to carry out necessary interior modifications and provide essential facilities for traders.
Modifications and shifting of traders
Mr. Rao instructed MCC to discuss specific requirements with traders and make suitable arrangements to facilitate their occupation of stalls. He also asked the officials to shift traders currently operating from temporary stalls outside the market premises into the main building once it is ready for use. “The market building has been constructed unscientifically, and several issues need to be addressed before traders can move in,” the minister remarked after the inspection.
Cost and construction details
The Urwa Market building was constructed by the Mangaluru Urban Development Authority (MUDA) at a cost of around ₹14 crore. It was later handed over to the MCC, which has so far remitted ₹7 crore to MUDA and is yet to pay the remaining balance. The minister stated that MCC officials have estimated an additional ₹2–3 crore will be needed for the required modifications and facility upgrades. Traders have reportedly agreed to occupy the stalls once these changes are implemented.
Background and structure of Urwa Market
The Urwa Market, a multi-storey market-cum-commercial complex, was inaugurated in January 2019 by the then Urban Development Minister U.T. Khader, now Speaker of the Karnataka Legislative Assembly. The foundation stone for the project was laid on December 19, 2016.
The six-storey structure has a total built-up area of 84,891.45 sq. ft. It includes 122 stalls, of which 31 were allocated for fish vendors, eight for chicken vendors, and 68 for other traders. Additionally, 15 units were reserved for office spaces. The basement and lower ground floors can accommodate parking for 69 cars and 40 two-wheelers, with separate parking areas for office occupants.
Call for efficient utilisation
During his visit, Mr. Rao emphasised the importance of optimising government infrastructure projects for public benefit. “It is essential that the building, which was developed at a substantial public cost, becomes operational at the earliest,” he said. He added that coordination between MUDA, MCC, and traders would ensure the market’s revival and help improve local commerce in the Urwa area.