Mangaluru UGD Upgrade Proposal Worth ₹1250 Crore Recommended for Citywide Sewage System Modernization
Mangaluru
A major proposal to upgrade the severely deteriorated underground drainage (UGD) system in Mangaluru has been recommended by the Public Undertakings Committee of the 16th Legislative Assembly, according to MLC Ivan D’Souza. The committee has suggested preparing a comprehensive ₹1,250 crore development plan to overhaul the city’s entire sewage infrastructure.
Speaking to the media, Ivan D’Souza said that a 20-member committee of MLAs recently visited Mangaluru and assessed the poor condition of the city’s drainage network. Following their inspection, the committee submitted a report highlighting the urgent need for modernization and long-term planning to address public health and environmental concerns.
He added that the matter has been taken up with the Urban Development Minister, the department secretary, and senior officials. The minister is expected to visit Mangaluru soon for a detailed review, and a Detailed Project Report (DPR) is already being initiated with the appointment of consultants.
The proposed ₹1,250 crore project is expected to focus on upgrading sewage treatment plants (STPs), constructing new wet wells, and modernizing existing wastewater infrastructure. A key component of the plan is the reuse of treated water instead of releasing it into stormwater drains and rivers, which currently contributes to pollution.
Officials also intend to address shortcomings identified in previous works, including issues flagged by the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG), to prevent cost overruns and ensure better execution. The project is expected to be implemented within a fixed timeline, considering the city’s rapid urbanization and growing sanitation demands.
Ivan D’Souza highlighted that Mangaluru’s drainage system, which dates back to 1952, is no longer adequate. He cited recent incidents where sewage contamination affected drinking water pipelines in Kadri and polluted well water in areas like Bolara, raising serious public health concerns.
He urged all political parties to set aside differences and cooperate in securing funding from both state and central governments to implement the project effectively.
