Mangaluru's Makeover: ₹886 Crore Plan for Future-Ready City

Mangaluru City Corporation (MCC) has recently presented its ₹886.3 crore budget for the financial year 2025-26, focusing on vital infrastructure developments, including underground drainage (UGD) systems, water supply enhancements, and road improvements.

MCC projects a total revenue of ₹741.2 crore, with grants of ₹500 crore expected from state and central governments. The budget was presented by Kadri Manohar Shetty, Chairperson of the Standing Committee on Taxation, Finance, and Appeals. It outlines a projected ₹241.7 crore in revenue generation from various taxes. These include ₹95.9 crore from property tax, ₹55 crore from water cess, ₹25 crore from solid waste management cess, ₹24.8 crore from building construction and premium FAR, and ₹8.7 crore from road cutting and restoration fees. The corporation also expects to earn over ₹7 crore annually from new markets in Kadri, Kankanady, and Central Market.

A significant portion of the budget, ₹23.2 crore, is allocated for the repair and management of the city's water supply, while ₹1 crore is earmarked for the renovation of the Thumbe Dam. To address flooding issues in low-lying areas, ₹9.2 crore will be used for improving rajakaluves.

In terms of infrastructure, MCC plans to upgrade 9.5 km of UGD trunk lines with funding from the National Green Tribunal (NGT), aiming to prevent sewage from flowing into stormwater drains. Additionally, ₹49.4 crore will be used to replace old UGD pipelines in areas like Pumpwell, Attavara, Bejai, and Mahakalipadpu. For road widening and footpath development, ₹67.3 crore has been allocated.

To manage the stray dog population and curb pet abandonment, the corporation will launch a free sterilization program for pet dogs at an estimated cost of ₹56 lakh.

To alleviate parking congestion near Sri Manjunatha Temple in Kadri, MCC has proposed a multi-level parking facility through a public-private partnership (PPP) model, with ₹10 crore allocated for the project. Furthermore, ₹5 crore is set aside for the construction of a Mayor's Bungalow and a Recreation Centre.

News by Rahul Yelligetti.