Mangaluru: In a significant boost to urban infrastructure, the Karnataka government has approved a major underground cabling project worth approximately ₹300 crore for the coastal city and surrounding urban areas. Karnataka Legislative Assembly Speaker U T Khader announced that the project will cover Mangaluru City Corporation, Ullal City Municipality and Someshwara Town Municipality, aiming to modernise the power distribution system and improve urban aesthetics.
Addressing reporters at the MESCOM office in Mangaluru on Wednesday, Khader said the project would be rolled out shortly. He emphasised that the initiative is designed to address long-standing issues associated with overhead electric lines, particularly in densely populated residential zones.
Major investment in Ullal and surrounding areas
A substantial portion of the project will be implemented within Ullal City Municipality limits. The underground cabling work in this area alone is estimated to cost ₹186.45 crore, reflecting the scale and importance of the initiative. Similar works will also be carried out in Someshwara Town Municipality, although detailed cost allocations for that region are yet to be disclosed.
Officials stated that the cables will be laid at a depth of approximately 1.5 metres, ensuring durability and safety. The underground system is expected to have a lifespan of up to 25 years, significantly reducing maintenance challenges and disruptions caused by weather conditions.
Improved safety and city aesthetics
The underground cabling project is expected to transform the visual landscape of the city by eliminating the clutter of hanging electric wires. Apart from enhancing aesthetics, the move is also aimed at improving public safety by reducing risks associated with exposed or damaged overhead lines, especially during heavy rains and storms.
Power supply reliability is also likely to improve, as underground systems are generally less prone to outages caused by falling trees, strong winds, or other environmental factors. Residents in many parts of Mangaluru have long raised concerns over frequent power disruptions, and the project is expected to address these issues effectively.
Coastal erosion and infrastructure development
In addition to the cabling project, Khader provided updates on efforts to tackle coastal erosion in Ullal. He said that a proposal has been submitted to implement a permanent solution to the problem, which has affected several coastal stretches over the years.
He also confirmed that pending works in areas impacted by sea erosion have now been completed. Coastal erosion has been a recurring concern for residents in Ullal, leading to damage to property and infrastructure. Authorities are now focusing on long-term mitigation measures to safeguard vulnerable regions.
New ACP office complex approved
In another key development, the government has sanctioned a new site for the construction of an Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) office complex in the region. The facility will be built at an estimated cost of ₹20 crore and is expected to streamline administrative and policing functions.
The proposed complex will house the ACP office, a traffic police office, and an advanced AI-based cyber centre under one roof. Officials believe this integrated setup will improve coordination among departments and enhance the efficiency of law enforcement services in the city.
Officials present at the briefing
Several senior officials were present during the press conference, including MESCOM chairman Harish Kumar, managing director Jayakumar, and MUDA chairman Sadashiva Ullal. They reiterated the importance of the project in strengthening the region’s infrastructure and ensuring sustainable urban development.
Conclusion
The ₹300 crore underground cabling project marks a major step towards modernising Mangaluru’s infrastructure while addressing safety, reliability, and aesthetic concerns. Alongside initiatives to combat coastal erosion and improve policing infrastructure, the developments signal a broader push towards planned urban growth in the coastal belt. Timely execution of these projects will be crucial in delivering long-term benefits to residents and businesses alike.