Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru (ANK)

Mangaluru, Jan 8: The Mangaluru City Corporation (MCC), led by mayor Manoj Kumar, held a pre-budget meeting with public participation at its office on Wednesday, January 8.

Activist Hanumanth Kamath highlighted several concerns, stating, “The MCC increased water prices and property taxes by up to 15%, adding financial strain to the common man.” He alleged that Ullal gram panchayat owes Rs 2.54 crore, and Mulki panchayat owes Rs 1.3 crore, yet dues remain uncollected. Kamath further noted that water bill arrears have surged to Rs 60 crore, compared to Rs 16 crore during Kavitha Sanil's tenure.

Kamath criticized the unchanged hoarding rates for 20 years and pointed out the poor condition of Urwa Market, urging immediate action against shopkeepers violating norms.

Another activist proposed forming a task force committee for waste management, citing inadequate personnel overseeing nine wards. Concerns about park and pond maintenance, tax collection from hostels and PGs, and developing government schools were also raised.

Activist GK Bhat questioned the stalled development of the Pumpwell bus stand and the construction of a temporary shed costing Rs 45 lac. He also raised environmental concerns about saplings planted at the site.

Other suggestions included installing additional CCTV cameras, clearing builder dues before granting licenses, uploading the draft budget online, and constructing a retaining wall at AJ Engineering College – Kottara.