After a wait of nearly five years, Mangaluru is on the verge of unveiling a significant new public space. The first phase of the ambitious waterfront promenade along the Nethravati river, developed by the Mangaluru Smart City Limited (MSCL), is now complete and slated for public inauguration in the third week of December.
A Long-Awaited Project Nears Completion
The journey for this transformative project began back in 2020, when MSCL prepared a detailed project report (DPR). The overarching plan involves the beautification and development of a 2.1-kilometer stretch of riverbank starting from the Nethravati bridge. According to Arun Prabha KS, the General Manager (Technical) at MSCL, the core vision is to transform the riverfront into a prime tourist and recreational hub for the city.
"The main aim of the Nethravati riverfront project is to make the riverbank an attractive tourist spot with all facilities for recreation," Arun Prabha stated. He emphasized that the development has been carried out with a focus on preserving the natural environment and even enhancing it through the planting of additional saplings.
What's Ready in the First Phase?
The initial phase that is ready for inauguration covers a 450-meter segment extending from the Nethravati railway bridge to the Morgan Gate. While hardscaping work like infrastructure and retaining walls is nearly finished across the entire 2.1 km area (barring a 300-meter section), this first stretch boasts completed softscaping and amenities.
Residents and visitors can look forward to a diverse array of facilities designed for all age groups. The completed features include:
- A scenic walkway built using laterite stones and bricks.
- An open-air theatre for cultural events.
- An open-air gym and a dedicated children's play area.
- A unique birdwatching zone with steps leading down to the river.
- An art gallery space and an intriguing tree house.
Arun Prabha also revealed plans to introduce boating and water sports activities in the river, which will be managed through a specialized agency. The MSCL intends to open these new facilities in conjunction with the soon-to-be-completed railway underbridge at Mahakalipadpu, ensuring better connectivity.
Project Scope and Financials
The project has seen a significant revision in its budget. Originally earmarked at Rs 70 crore for the full 2.1 km development, a revised estimate brought the cost down to approximately Rs 32 crore. Officials confirm that around Rs 16 crore has been expended on the project so far.
This strategic scaling down has not hampered the delivery of core amenities. The focus remains on creating a sustainable and attractive public realm that boosts local tourism and provides Mangaluru's citizens with a much-needed recreational corridor along their historic riverfront.
