Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru/Udupi

Mangaluru/Udupi, Mar 5: The state government has initiated steps to develop a master plan for a metro rail project connecting Mangaluru and Udupi.

The proposed 64-kilometer intercity metro rail link aims to connect Mangaluru, Udupi, and Manipal. The state government has directed the Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL) to conduct a detailed technical and financial feasibility study for the project. Official communication regarding this has also been sent to the deputy commissioners of both Dakshina Kannada and Udupi districts.

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Former KPCC secretary Mohan Das Hegde, in a letter to health minister Dinesh Gundu Rao and industries minister M B Patil, proposed that the metro route be developed to include major cities, suburban areas, and industrial zones between Mangaluru and Manipal. He highlighted that this project could boost economic growth, support urban development, and streamline the transportation network in the region.

Hegde noted that the existing road-based transport system is heavily congested, leading to significant travel delays. Given the growing population, a metro rail network is seen as a suitable solution to improve transit efficiency.

Dakshina Kannada deputy commissioner Mullai Muhilan confirmed receiving a letter from the government about the proposed metro project. He stated that BMRCL would conduct the study, and future steps would be based on its findings.