Mangaluru: Assembly Speaker U T Khader on Wednesday said he would hold discussions with officials and ministers regarding the delay in opening the Mahakalipadpu railway underbridge (RUB) to the public, even though the construction work has been completed. He said the underbridge, which provides direct access to the city from the Kerala and Ullal side, is crucial for easing traffic congestion and improving connectivity.
Speaker flags concern over delay
Khader told reporters that the Mahakalipadpu RUB was approved during his tenure as Urban Development Minister as part of a broader plan to strengthen the city’s infrastructure. He recalled that the project was envisioned to offer a smoother and safer entry into the city, particularly for commuters travelling from the southern side.
“The work was delayed due to various reasons. Now that only a few pending works remain, discussions will be held with the district minister and other stakeholders to ensure that the RUB is opened to traffic at the earliest,” he said. According to him, prolonged delays despite completion of major works defeat the purpose of infrastructure projects meant for public benefit.
He added that coordination among multiple departments is essential to address bottlenecks related to clearances, safety measures and final inspections.
Site visit and review planned
Khader said he would personally visit the Mahakalipadpu RUB site to review the issues on the ground. He noted that a firsthand assessment would help in identifying practical hurdles that may not be evident on paper.
“I will inspect the spot, review the pending works and direct officials to take the necessary steps to resolve the issues,” he said, adding that accountability is required at every level to ensure timely completion and commissioning of public infrastructure.
He also indicated that directions would be issued to concerned departments to work in coordination so that minor pending works do not further delay the opening of the underbridge.
Importance of the underbridge
The Mahakalipadpu RUB is considered a key infrastructure project as it offers direct connectivity from Kerala and Ullal towards the city, reducing dependence on congested routes and railway crossings. Commuters and residents have repeatedly raised concerns over the delay, pointing out that the underbridge has the potential to significantly reduce travel time and improve road safety.
The Speaker’s assurance of intervention has raised expectations that the long-pending issue will finally be resolved.
Update on healthcare infrastructure
Responding to questions on healthcare development, Khader said discussions have already been held on establishing satellite units of the Jayadeva Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences and Research and the Kidwai Memorial Institute of Oncology.
He pointed out that similar satellite centres have been set up in Kalaburagi and Mysuru, bringing specialised treatment closer to patients in those regions. A centre in this coastal city, he said, would benefit poor patients from four to five neighbouring districts who currently travel long distances for cardiac and cancer care.
“These institutions are known for providing high-quality treatment at affordable costs. A satellite unit here will reduce the burden on patients and their families,” he said.
Need for budgetary support
Khader noted that while the proposal for the satellite centres has been discussed, it needs to be formally included in the State budget to move forward. He stressed that timely budgetary allocation is crucial for translating proposals into reality.
He said the proposed centres would also help bring balance to treatment costs in the private healthcare sector by offering a reliable and affordable public alternative for advanced heart and cancer care.
Remarks on Assembly decorum
Replying to a query on objections raised over his ‘Harikatha’ remark, Khader said the Legislative Assembly functions like a family and that he preferred not to comment outside on matters discussed within the House.
“At times, differences of opinion arise, but they should be resolved internally,” he said, underlining the importance of maintaining the dignity of the House.
He also emphasised that the coastal region holds a special place in the State and that legislators from the region have traditionally enjoyed a reputation for courtesy, simplicity and decency.
“That culture and reputation must be upheld at all times,” he said.
Balancing development and dignity
Khader’s remarks reflected a dual focus on infrastructure development and institutional values. While stressing the urgency of opening the Mahakalipadpu RUB and improving healthcare access, he also highlighted the need for decorum and mutual respect in public life.
Conclusion: With assurances of discussions, site inspections and coordination among departments, the Assembly Speaker’s intervention may provide fresh momentum to the long-delayed Mahakalipadpu RUB. At the same time, his comments on healthcare expansion and legislative conduct point to a broader vision of balanced development and responsible governance.