KCCI Submits Memorandum to Karnataka Chief Minister on Key Development Issues in Dakshina Kannada
Mangaluru: The Kanara Chamber of Commerce & Industry (KCCI), Mangaluru, has submitted a memorandum to Karnataka Chief Minister Shri D. K. Shivakumar, highlighting several critical issues affecting industrial growth and infrastructure development in Dakshina Kannada district.
In the memorandum dated September 11, 2026, KCCI urged the State Government to intervene and take immediate steps to address long-pending concerns relating to industrial land, infrastructure, logistics and trade development in the coastal region.
Balkunje Land for MSMEs
One key concern raised by KCCI was the long-pending proposal for land acquisition to promote industrial development, particularly for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).
The Government had earlier proposed acquiring 1,050 acres of land in Udupi and Dakshina Kannada districts. However, the prolonged delay has affected several MSMEs planning to establish operations in the region.
According to KCCI, the delay is hampering local economic growth and could result in industries relocating to other districts or states where better infrastructure and institutional support are available.
The Chamber urged the Government to expedite the process and ensure that the proposed MSME ecosystem at Balkunje becomes a reality.
Repossession of JESCO and KISCO Lands
KCCI has also requested the Government to repossess approximately 400 acres of JESCO land and 50 acres of KISCO land that have remained unutilised for more than three decades.
The Chamber urged that these lands be reallocated exclusively to MSMEs to unlock their industrial potential and provide much-needed space for enterprise growth in the region.
Infrastructure Development at Baikampady Industrial Area
The memorandum also highlighted the urgent need to upgrade infrastructure in the Baikampady Industrial Area.
KCCI pointed out that the proposed Rs 50-crore water treatment plant by KIADB would not be fully effective without a proper underground drainage system and urged authorities to prioritise developing an efficient drainage network.
The Chamber also stressed the need for underground power cabling to ensure a reliable and uninterrupted power supply for industries, minimizing disruptions and preventing operational losses.
In addition, KCCI drew attention to the poor condition of several roads, including the ODC Road within the Baikampady Industrial Area. The roads, it said, have become unmotorable in several stretches, affecting the movement of goods and industrial logistics. Immediate repairs and upgradation were sought.
Integrated Multi-Modal Logistics Park for Mangaluru
KCCI has proposed establishing an Integrated or Multi-Modal Logistics Park in Mangaluru, citing the city’s strategic geographical location and strong connectivity by sea, air and road.
The Chamber noted that Mangaluru’s proximity to major international markets, including Dubai and Singapore, along with the availability of land and transportation infrastructure, makes it ideally suited to emerge as a major logistics hub.
The proposed logistics park could include mechanised warehouses, cold storage facilities, customs clearance services and Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) operations.
KCCI said such a facility could significantly strengthen Mangaluru’s role in regional and international logistics and improve connectivity with major commercial centres such as Mumbai, Pune, Kochi, Bengaluru and Dubai.
Demand for Mangaluru International Exhibition Centre
Another major proposal put forward by KCCI is the establishment of a Mangaluru International Exhibition Centre (MIEC).
The Chamber said that despite Mangaluru’s significant potential as a centre for trade, education and healthcare, the region lacks a dedicated international exhibition facility capable of hosting trade fairs, business expos and industry exhibitions.
KCCI pointed out that Mangaluru is home to Karnataka’s only all-weather, deep-draft port and has an international airport with direct connectivity to Gulf destinations. The region also has a strong network of medical and educational institutions that attract people from across India and abroad.
The Chamber urged the Government of Karnataka to identify suitable land and facilitate the development of the Mangaluru International Exhibition Centre as important infrastructure to strengthen the region’s position as a commercial and business hub.
KCCI President and Director P. B. Ahmed Mudassar said the issues raised in the memorandum were crucial for the industrial and economic development of Dakshina Kannada and the wider coastal Karnataka region.
The Chamber has requested the Chief Minister’s immediate attention and intervention in addressing these concerns and expressed hope for a positive response from the Government.
