Mangalore: Lakshadweep MP Proposes Dedicated Wharf at Old Port
Pics: Dayanand Kukkaje
Daijiworld Media Network – Mangalore (VM)
Mangalore, Jan 11: "Lakshadweep and Mangalore have shared good relationship over the years, hence we have placed a proposal before the government to construct a dedicated wharf at old Mangalore port for travelers to Lakshadweep," said Hamdulla Sayeed, member of parliament, Lakshadweep.
Sayeed was speaking to mediapersons during his visit to the old port at Bunder here on Thursday January 10.
He said the proposed wharf would facilitate easy transport of freight to and from Lakshadweep, and also enable passengers to travel directly from Mangalore to Lakshadweep.
Sayeed said that the draft proposal in this regard has already been sent to the Karnataka government by the Lakshadweep administration.
Replying to a query, he said that the proposed wharf would cost Rs 44.5 crore, which would be borne by both Karnataka and Lakshadweep administrations.
He said the construction of buildings in Lakshadweep is mainly dependent on sand supply from Mangalore. "As the supply of sand from Mangalore is banned, it has become a problem. In this regard a draft has been sent to the government to lift the ban. I have personally met Montek Singh Ahluwalia and other officials of the Planning Commission requesting them to lift the ban," he said.
The cement from Andhra Pradesh meant for the island can now be stored in Mangalore, he added.
Commercial Complex, Housing Facility
"A total of 2.5 acre of land has been earmarked at Hoige Bazar for the construction of a commercial complex and housing facility taking into consideration the needs of Lakshadweep passengers coming to Mangalore," said Sayeed, adding that there is a plan to set up a housing society, shopping complex and projects in the area.
He futher said discussion in this regard has been held with Bunder officials and with the land and mining departments. Sayeed urged the Karnataka government to respond to the proposal in a positive way.
"With these projects, the relationship between Mangalore and Lakshadweep will grow stronger," he added.
MLA UT Khader, K Ashraf, former mayor, KPCC secretary Ivan D’Souza, Mithun Rai, youth Congress president, R Mohan, Bunder director, Madhusudhan, Ravindra, deputy director of land and mines department among others were present.