Mangaluru: Dakshina Kannada MP Capt Brijesh Chowta has urged the district administration to extend three major city bus routes in Mangaluru to improve public transportation, enhance connectivity and cater to the city’s growing population. The proposal is aimed at benefiting daily commuters, students, industrial workers and tourists visiting key destinations across the coastal city.

In a letter addressed to the Deputy Commissioner, the MP highlighted the need to revise and expand existing city bus routes that have remained largely unchanged despite rapid urban growth and increasing transportation demands.

Proposal to extend three major routes

Capt Chowta recommended extending Route No. 5 from Morgans Gate to Jeppinamogaru, a move expected to improve accessibility for residents in the expanding locality and provide better public transport options.

He also proposed extending Route No. 7 from Urwa Stores to the Baikampady Industrial Area. According to the MP, the extension would greatly benefit industrial workers and daily commuters who travel to and from the industrial hub, one of the city’s major employment centres.

Additionally, he suggested extending Route No. 13 to the interior areas of Panambur beach. The proposal aims to provide direct bus connectivity to one of the region’s most popular tourist destinations, making travel more convenient for both local visitors and tourists from across the country and abroad.

Growing city requires improved connectivity

In his letter, the MP noted that Mangaluru has witnessed rapid growth in recent years, with expanding residential areas, increasing commercial activity and a rising population.

He pointed out that many city buses continue to operate on older and comparatively shorter routes that no longer adequately serve the transportation needs of residents. According to him, the mismatch between urban growth and existing bus services is creating inconvenience for passengers and limiting the effectiveness of the city’s public transport network.

Capt Chowta further stated that route extensions could also improve passenger numbers and help bus operators by increasing ridership and reducing operational losses.

Benefits for commuters and tourism

The MP emphasised that extending the proposed routes would provide significant benefits to various sections of society, including students, office-goers, industrial workers and residents living in peripheral areas.

The extension to Baikampady is expected to offer better connectivity for thousands of workers employed in industries located in the area, while the Panambur beach extension could boost tourism by making one of the city’s key attractions more accessible through public transport.

Improved connectivity to Jeppinamogaru would also support residents and businesses in the locality by providing easier access to the city’s transport network.

Administration initiates action

Following the MP’s representation, the Deputy Commissioner’s office has taken preliminary steps to examine the proposal. The administration has written to senior officials of the transport department, directing them to place the matter before the Regional Transport Authority (RTA) at the earliest.

The communication has requested officials to discuss the proposed route extensions during the authority’s meeting and take appropriate decisions based on public need and operational feasibility.

Awaiting decision from transport authorities

The proposal has generated interest among commuters who have long sought improved bus connectivity in several parts of the city. If approved, the route extensions could strengthen Mangaluru’s public transportation system and support the city’s continued expansion.

The final decision will rest with the Regional Transport Authority, which is expected to examine the feasibility, passenger demand and operational aspects of the proposed extensions before granting approval.

For now, residents, commuters and industry representatives await the outcome of the discussions, which could pave the way for more efficient and accessible public transport services in Mangaluru.