Mangaluru: Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Friday announced that the much-anticipated second phase of construction for Mangaluru Central Prison, coming up near Mudipu, will be undertaken during 2026-27. The move comes as the State Government aims to address overcrowding and security concerns at the existing Mangaluru District Prison.
The present district prison has been facing numerous operational challenges, including frequent fights between inmates, attacks on personnel, and even the murder of an inmate in recent years. These incidents have highlighted the urgent need for a new, high-security facility to ensure the safety of prisoners, staff, and nearby residents.
First phase construction and expenditure
The State Government had already completed the first phase of construction at a cost of ₹110 crore. This phase included building the main prison complex with a capacity to house 1,000 inmates. The facility has been designed as a high-security prison with modern amenities, advanced surveillance systems, and improved living conditions for prisoners.
The successful completion of the first phase laid the foundation for the second phase, which will include the construction of a compound wall, residential quarters for prison staff, and other essential infrastructure. These additions are critical to facilitate the safe transfer of inmates from the overcrowded district prison to the new facility on the outskirts of the city.
Local concerns and the need for completion
Residents living around the existing district prison have faced challenges due to the operation of mobile signal jammers installed inside the facility. The jammers, intended to prevent communication by inmates, have disrupted mobile signals in nearby areas, prompting demands from the public to expedite the completion of the new prison.
Authorities have acknowledged these concerns, and the proposed second phase aims to provide a fully functional and secure environment for inmates and staff while reducing the impact on the surrounding community. The project is expected to improve overall prison management and mitigate the risk of further incidents.
Government commitment and future plans
Chief Minister Siddaramaiah emphasised that the government is committed to ensuring timely completion of the second phase. The construction work will follow strict quality standards and safety protocols. The additional infrastructure planned, including staff quarters and the compound wall, is expected to provide a secure and self-sufficient facility.
Once completed, the new central prison will not only relieve overcrowding at the district prison but also serve as a model for modern correctional facilities in the state. The government plans to incorporate advanced security measures, rehabilitation programmes, and efficient administrative systems to ensure smooth operations.
Conclusion
The initiation of the second phase of Mangaluru Central Prison represents a significant step towards modernising the state’s correctional facilities. With proper planning and timely execution, the new prison near Mudipu is expected to enhance safety for both inmates and staff while addressing the concerns of local residents.