Mangaluru: In a push to address the future infrastructure needs of Wenlock District Hospital, district in-charge minister Dinesh Gundu Rao has instructed authorities to locate and reserve land on the outskirts of the city for expansion purposes.
The announcement was made during the Karnataka Development Programme (KDP) quarterly review meeting on Monday. The move came in response to MLA Harish Poonja’s concerns over space limitations at the existing hospital premises due to surrounding constructions. The minister recommended choosing land close to highway access to ensure better connectivity.
District health officer Dr. Thimmayya mentioned that approximately 8 acres of land are available near the Moodushedde TB Hospital. Additionally, Dr. Shivaprasad, superintendent of Wenlock Hospital, noted that a new four-storey block will soon be constructed after vacating the current outpatient department.
MLA Poonja further suggested setting up a dialysis unit and mortuary at Belthangady Taluk Hospital to enhance rural health infrastructure.
Minister Gundu Rao assured that Anganwadi and health sub-centres operating on rented premises within Mangaluru City Corporation limits will soon be granted land by the civic or revenue department.
Addressing a dispute over Emmekere swimming pool, the minister directed the district administration to mediate and prohibited any changes to the facility without formal consent.
Staff shortages in urban planning bodies were also highlighted, affecting building permits and land record processes. The minister demanded immediate appointments to resolve the issue.
The Mangalore Urban Development Authority was asked to release a draft of the updated Master Plan ahead of the next KDP meeting.
Additionally, land near Pumpwell is being earmarked for a KSRTC electric bus depot, and KPTCL has been directed to speed up the 110 kV line to fix power issues in Sullia.