Karnataka Home Minister Announces Major Infrastructure Plans for Mangaluru
In a significant development for law enforcement infrastructure in Karnataka, Home Minister G Parameshwara has announced that efforts are underway to shift the district prison in Mangaluru to Bantwal taluk at the earliest opportunity. The minister made this statement while inaugurating 12 police quarters in Moodubidire and laying the foundation stone for 54 additional police quarters at Police Lane in Mangaluru on Tuesday.
Prison Relocation Project Details and Funding Requirements
Parameshwara revealed that the new prison project requires a total investment of Rs 120 crore to reach completion. Of this substantial amount, Rs 50 crore is specifically earmarked for constructing the compound wall surrounding the facility. The minister emphasized that once the compound wall construction is finalized, the prison can be relocated immediately, as the barracks have already been constructed. During his recent inspection of the new prison site, Parameshwara noted that remaining interior works could be addressed subsequently.
"During the pre-budget meeting, I requested the chief minister to sanction funds to complete the prison project in Mangaluru, and I am confident the allocation will be approved," Parameshwara stated, expressing optimism about securing the necessary financial support.
Addressing Mobile Jammer Concerns and Future Use of Existing Premises
The Home Minister also addressed concerns regarding mobile jammers affecting nearby residents, explaining that frequent scuffles within the prison necessitated strict monitoring measures. "I directed the technical team to regulate the jammer system so that it functions only within the prison premises," he clarified, aiming to minimize disruption to the surrounding community.
Regarding the future utilization of the existing prison premises after relocation, Parameshwara indicated that a decision would be made subsequently, with one potential option being its conversion into quarters for the police department.
Expansion of Police Gruha Scheme and Housing Initiatives
Parameshwara announced that the state government will continue the Police Gruha housing scheme until 2030. He highlighted that the unit cost per house has increased from Rs 18 lakh when the scheme was launched to Rs 32 lakh currently. With only 40% of the planned quarters completed so far, the government decided to extend the scheme to ensure broader implementation.
"I hope to sanction 100 quarters for Mangaluru next year. My dream is to provide housing for all 1.1 lakh police personnel serving in the state," Parameshwara declared, outlining his ambitious vision for police welfare.
Combating Drug Menace and Strengthening Law Enforcement
Achieving a drug-free Karnataka remains a challenging task, according to Parameshwara, who noted that police are regularly seizing drugs across the state. "If parents remain vigilant and monitoring of students continues, the drug menace can be contained," he asserted, directing police to take strict action against all drug-related offences.
The minister also stated that proposals for new police stations would be examined in accordance with established guidelines, with assurances that new buildings would be sanctioned wherever necessary to enhance operational efficiency.
Coastal Security Infrastructure Upgrades and Local Demands
Expressing concern over the poor condition of boats used by the Coastal Security Police (CSP), Parameshwara revealed that only 3 to 4 out of 15 boats are currently functional. He has requested funds to upgrade CSP infrastructure to strengthen sea surveillance capabilities along the coast.
During the event, Mangaluru City South MLA D Vedavyas Kamath urged the government to sanction new buildings for the Kankanady police station, traffic police station, and Mangaluru North police station, highlighting local infrastructure needs.
The inauguration ceremony was attended by IGP (Western Range) Amit Singh, City Police Commissioner Sudheer Kumar Reddy CH, and Superintendent of Police Arun K, underscoring the collaborative effort behind these infrastructure initiatives.
