Mangaluru: Mangaluru City Corporation Commissioner Rahul Ratnam Pandey has ordered an immediate halt to construction work allegedly obstructing a stormwater drain on Kadri Kambla Road until an inquiry is completed. He has also directed officials to issue a notice to the building owner and schedule a hearing within the same week.
The directions were issued during an inspection of various parts of Mangaluru on October 28, accompanied by officials of the Mangaluru Urban Development Authority (MUDA). The Commissioner reviewed ongoing development works, heard public grievances and discussed proposals to improve parks, playgrounds, markets and civic infrastructure.
During the visit, Pandey also examined complaints from the management of Sri Manjunatha Temple in Kadri regarding alleged sewage contamination of the water pipeline used by the temple.
Construction obstructing Kadri drain halted
During an inspection of Kadri Kambla Road, the Commissioner found construction work obstructing a stormwater drain and drainage channel. He directed the concerned officials to stop the work immediately until an inquiry into the matter is completed.
He also instructed officials to issue a notice to the building owner and arrange a hearing within the week. The action is intended to address the obstruction and establish the circumstances surrounding the construction.
Stormwater drains play an important role in carrying rainwater away from roads and surrounding properties. Obstructions can affect the flow of water and create drainage problems, making the issue a matter of civic concern.
Sewage contamination complaint at Kadri temple
At Sri Manjunatha Temple in Kadri, the Commissioner heard complaints from the temple management about sewage allegedly entering the water pipeline used by the temple.
Pandey discussed the proposed underground drainage works with officials and directed them to take the necessary action to address the issue. The asphalting of the temple’s parking area was also discussed during the inspection.
The visit focused on the need to address the temple’s grievances and improve the surrounding civic infrastructure.
At Kadri Ground, the Commissioner and MUDA officials discussed arrangements for reserving the ground for public use. They also considered awarding a maintenance contract and outsourcing the upkeep of the public toilet located nearby.
Mannagudda Park to get development blueprint
At Mannagudda Park near the Mayor’s bungalow, Pandey discussed plans to develop the existing space into an attractive recreational destination with multiple sports facilities.
Officials from the City Corporation and MUDA considered the proposed improvements, and it was decided to prepare a comprehensive development blueprint for the park.
The proposed plan is expected to guide the development of recreational facilities and make the space more useful to residents.
Mahakalipadpu ground proposed for park and children’s play area
The Commissioner also inspected Mahakalipadpu Ground, located opposite the residential quarters for civic workers.
Officials discussed proposals to develop the ground into a park and create a play area for children and students. The proposals included fencing the premises and constructing an open-air theatre.
Pandey directed City Corporation officials to convene an urgent meeting with the Horticulture Department to discuss the proposed development.
Residents of the area also submitted a petition seeking repairs to deteriorated roads. The Commissioner assured them that the necessary action would be taken at the earliest.
Urwa Stores renovation work under scrutiny
At Urwa Stores, Pandey inspected ongoing building renovation work and noted concerns regarding compliance with applicable regulations.
He directed officials to issue a notice to the building owner and schedule a hearing for the following week.
The proposed hearing is expected to provide an opportunity to examine the concerns identified during the inspection and determine the further course of action.
Urwa Stores Market development proposals discussed
The Commissioner visited Urwa Stores Market and the adjoining ground, where he held discussions with MUDA officials on proposals to improve the market and surrounding area.
The proposed development plan includes organised parking facilities, traditional-style architecture, separate entry and exit gates, a food court and drive-in food counters. An open-air theatre is also among the proposals under consideration.
Officials discussed comprehensive beautification of the adjoining ground and the possibility of entrusting its maintenance through a tendering process.
The discussions also covered road beautification and the installation of CCTV cameras to improve the area’s infrastructure and monitoring. It was decided to hold meetings with the concerned departments in the coming days to take the proposals forward.
MUDA officials accompany Commissioner
MUDA Chairman Santhosh Kumar Shetty, MUDA Commissioner Mohammed Nazir and other officials were present during the inspections.
The visit covered several civic concerns, ranging from drainage obstruction and sewage complaints to road repairs and proposals for parks, playgrounds and market development.
The Commissioner issued directions on the construction work at Kadri Kambla Road and Urwa Stores, while development proposals at Mannagudda, Mahakalipadpu, Kadri Ground and Urwa Stores Market are to be taken forward through discussions with the relevant departments.