Nayana J C
Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru
Mangaluru, May 29: Several government residential quarters located in the heart of Mangaluru near the prime Lalbagh area have been lying abandoned for years, raising serious concerns among residents over safety hazards, neglect and possible misuse of valuable public property.
The quarters, originally constructed to house government officers and staff from various departments, are now in a severely deteriorated condition. While a few units remain occupied, more than 12 quarters are reportedly vacant and unfit for habitation.
Thick bushes and overgrown grass have taken over the premises, while cracked walls, damaged roofs, and broken doors and windows reflect prolonged neglect. Local residents allege that the abandoned structures have become increasingly vulnerable to anti-social activity, with unrestricted access allowing easy entry into the premises.
People living nearby have also expressed concern over the rising presence of snakes, scorpions and other reptiles due to poor maintenance. The sight of empty liquor bottles and discarded plastic waste found within one of the compounds has further heightened public concern.
What has surprised many residents is that these neglected government properties are situated in one of the city’s most prominent localities, close to the Officers’ Club frequently visited by senior district officials. Locals question how such prime public assets continue to remain ignored despite their strategic location and high value.
Residents believe that if authorities and elected representatives intervene, the area could be redeveloped into modern residential quarters for government employees instead of remaining in a state of neglect.
Responding to the issue, additional deputy commissioner Raju K said the quarters fall under the jurisdiction of the Public Works Department (PWD). He stated that there is currently no proposal for new construction, but assured that the matter would be inspected and necessary action initiated.
Among the abandoned structures is also the Probationary IPS bungalow. Reports state that Mukul Jain, presently commissioner of the Bidar City Corporation, had stayed in the bungalow during his tenure in Mangaluru as a probationary IPS officer from July 2023 to May 2024. His name board still remains at the site, even as the bungalow lies vacant and neglected.
The deteriorating condition of the quarters has now become a matter of public concern, with residents urging authorities to protect, maintain and effectively utilise the valuable government property before it falls into further decay.