Udupi to be upgraded to Municipal Corporation: Government initiates proposal

Team Udayavani, Jan 16, 2025, 9:32 AM IST

The Karnataka government is moving forward with plans to upgrade Udupi, a key cultural and religious center, to a municipal corporation. The Urban Development Department has directed the Udupi Deputy Commissioner and Commissioner of the Udupi City Municipal Council to assess the feasibility and submit a proposal with recommendations.

Udupi holds significant cultural, religious, and economic importance and is experiencing rapid urbanization and population growth. The government believes that upgrading the city council to a municipal corporation will enable better governance and improved infrastructure to meet the needs of its residents.

The Urban Development Department, through a letter from the Additional Secretary, has asked officials to conduct a thorough review and submit their recommendations.

Former KPCC member and secretary S. Mohandas Hegde had brought the matter to the attention of Minister for Urban Development Rahim Khan, providing supporting documentation. The minister, after reviewing the request, directed officials to initiate the proposal process.

Hegde emphasized that elevating Udupi to a municipal corporation would attract more investments, enhance infrastructure, and support the city’s business and tourism sectors. Improved tourist facilities and services could draw more visitors, while better healthcare, education, and emergency services would contribute to overall development.

Deputy Commissioner Dr. K. Vidyakumari stated, “A proposal has been requested, and we will convene a council meeting soon to review various aspects, including population, current city limits, and the possibility of including nearby gram panchayats. A decision will be made after deliberation, and the proposal will be submitted.”

The Deputy Commissioner is expected to finalize and submit the proposal within the next couple of weeks. Once reviewed, it will be presented to the cabinet for approval. While the process may take some time, the government is committed to ensuring that Udupi’s development aligns with its growing importance as a regional hub.

Sources from the ministry indicated that upgrading Udupi’s status would facilitate industrial and commercial growth, attract tourism, and provide a higher standard of living for its citizens.