Mangaluru: After nearly five years of planning and construction, the first phase of the Nethravati river front promenade — a flagship project of Mangaluru Smart City Limited (MSCL) — is finally set for inauguration in the third week of December. Officials confirmed that all major works under the waterfront development project have been completed, paving the way for the public to access new recreational and tourism amenities along the picturesque riverbank.

The project, conceptualised in 2020 through a Detailed Project Report (DPR), aims to beautify and develop a 2.1 km stretch of the Nethravati riverbank beginning from the Nethravati bridge. According to MSCL general manager (technical) Arun Prabha K S, 450 metres of the promenade is fully ready for use, while hardscaping works across the entire stretch are nearing completion.

“Only about 300 metres of hardscaping work is left. The primary goal of the Nethravati riverfront project is to create an attractive riverside tourist destination with comprehensive recreational facilities. We have focused on preserving nature, planting more saplings and ensuring sustainable development,” Arun Prabha told TOI.

He added that softscaping and finishing works — including tiling, landscaping, pathways and public amenities — have been completed from the Nethravati railway bridge to Morgan Gate, covering 450 metres.

New attractions for tourists and residents

The completed section of the promenade offers a range of facilities designed to boost tourism and enhance public recreational spaces. Among the key features are:

  • A birdwatching zone with steps leading down to the river
  • A 450-metre walkway constructed from laterite stones and bricks
  • An open-air theatre for cultural programmes and gatherings
  • An open-air gym for fitness enthusiasts
  • A children’s play area with recreational structures
  • A dedicated art gallery area
  • A tree house offering a unique viewing experience

MSCL has also planned to introduce boating and water sports activities through an external agency to further promote the riverfront as a tourist hub. Officials intend to inaugurate the promenade along with the Mahakalipadpu railway underbridge, which is close to completion.

Project cost scaled down significantly

When the waterfront project was initially announced, MSCL earmarked ₹70 crore for the development of the 2.1 km stretch. However, a revised estimate was later prepared to bring down costs without compromising major features of the project.

Arun Prabha said the final estimated cost had been reduced to ₹32 crore, and so far, ₹16 crore has been spent. He emphasised that despite the cost rationalisation, the project has retained essential amenities and its original vision of revitalising the Nethravati riverbank.

A new recreational identity for Mangaluru

The Nethravati riverfront promenade is expected to become one of the city’s most visited leisure destinations, complementing existing green spaces and waterfront areas. Residents have long awaited a dedicated recreational zone along the river, and MSCL officials hope the project will help promote tourism, enhance lifestyle facilities and create a vibrant public space for all age groups.

With the first phase set for a December inauguration, the remaining sections are expected to progress steadily, ensuring that the full 2.1 km stretch soon becomes a major highlight of the Smart City’s urban transformation efforts.