22-km coastal road mooted to ease travel, protect Mangaluru shoreline

Mangaluru: Mangaluru City Corporation (MCC) administrator and DC, Darshan HV, announced that MCC will prepare a detailed project report (DPR) to develop a 22-km coastal road along Mangaluru's shores. He made this announcement while presenting the MCC's 2026-27 budget Thursday. This coastal road project is part of a govt initiative to improve seashore connectivity from Karwar to Talapady, enhancing coastal tourism and protecting the shore from sea erosion.Due to limited opportunities to expand the existing four-lane national highway between Talapady and Sasihitlu, local representatives have discussed developing a 40-km coastal road between the two points. MCC will prepare the DPR for the road within its limits, the deputy commissioner stated. "While developing the coastal road, a protective wall needs to be constructed to prevent sea erosion. Once the road is completed, the panoramic views of the sea and rivers will further boost coastal tourism," he said. The DPR will be prepared in collaboration with the departments of ports, public works department (PWD), and national highways. Preliminary discussions have already taken place at the govt level, and a clearer picture of the project will emerge in the coming days.High-resolution CCTV cameras To enhance cleanliness in the city, the MCC plans to install high-resolution CCTV cameras at identified locations, which will also assist with traffic management and safety. A budget allocation of Rs 2 crore has been reserved for this purpose in the 2026-27 budget. Additionally, the budget earmarks Rs 50 lakh to promote Tulu culture and art forms, including drama, Yakshagana, Bhootaradhane, and other traditional arts of Tulu Nadu. To support Yakshagana specifically, Rs 10 lakh has been allocated, while Rs 9 lakh will be designated for kambala. 'Sakhi' toilets will be developed near bus stands, markets, and other public areas, with Rs 10 crore allocated for this initiative. An innovation fund of Rs 50 lakh has been established to address the odours emanating from the solid waste management unit at Pachanady. This fund will support institutions and startups that develop innovative solutions to this issue.