Udupi: A dedicated Fire and Emergency Services station will soon come up in Manipal, addressing a long-standing demand of residents and institutions in the area. The foundation stone for the new facility was laid on Monday by Udupi MLA Yashpal Suvarna at Adarsha Nagar in Manipal.
The proposed station will be constructed at an estimated cost of ₹3 crore and is expected to significantly improve emergency response in the rapidly developing town.
Long-standing demand of residents
Speaking after laying the foundation stone, MLA Yashpal Suvarna said that the establishment of a fire station in Manipal had been a long-pending demand of the local population.
He noted that Manipal has grown into a major hub for education, healthcare, and commercial activity. The town is home to several hospitals, educational institutions, industries, residential apartment complexes, and business establishments.
Despite its rapid growth and increasing population, Manipal did not have a dedicated fire and emergency services station until now.
Faster emergency response expected
Currently, in case of fire or other emergencies, fire tenders are dispatched from the Fire and Emergency Services station in Udupi city.
The MLA said this arrangement often led to delays in responding to emergencies due to the distance between Udupi and Manipal, particularly during peak traffic hours.
Once the new fire station becomes operational, fire tenders and emergency response teams will be stationed within Manipal itself.
“This will help reduce response time during emergencies and ensure faster assistance to hospitals, educational institutions, industries and residential areas,” he said.
Strategic location in Adarsha Nagar
The new station will be constructed at Adarsha Nagar in Manipal, a location considered strategically suitable for providing quick access to key areas in and around the town.
Officials said the location will allow fire services personnel to respond quickly to incidents in major institutions, commercial establishments, and densely populated neighbourhoods.
The presence of a dedicated station is expected to enhance disaster preparedness and strengthen fire safety infrastructure in the region.
Boost to safety infrastructure
The MLA emphasised that the project reflects the government’s commitment to strengthening emergency services in growing urban centres.
He said the establishment of the station will help improve public safety and provide better protection for residents, businesses, and institutions in Manipal.
With several large hospitals and educational institutions operating in the area, the availability of a nearby fire station is considered critical for handling emergencies effectively.
Project to address growing urban needs
Authorities believe the new facility will play a key role in supporting Manipal’s expanding infrastructure and population.
The town has witnessed significant development over the years due to the presence of educational institutions, medical facilities, and increasing commercial activity.
Officials said the fire station will not only benefit Manipal residents but will also strengthen emergency response capabilities in surrounding areas.
Once completed, the station is expected to ensure quicker deployment of fire tenders and trained personnel, thereby improving safety standards across the region.