Mangaluru : The Smart City project is still in its initial stages. Compared to other cities selected for the Smart City Programme, Mangaluru has a long way to go, the legislators and the Minister from the district will work together for the overall development of Dakshina Kannada and Mangaluru city.Mangaluru City South MLA D Vedavyas Kamath said.

Speaking during an interactive programme organised by Kanara Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Mangaluru on Friday, the MLA said that a lot more needs to be done towards making the Smart City a successful venture. It is a prerequisite to developing the basic facilities in Mangaluru. Water supply and underground drainage system need a major makeover. The ADB second phase project and Amrut project should be implemented effectively in this connection, he said.

“As a part of the Smart City, there are plans to develop Pumpwell Junction as an integrated hub,” he said.

Kamath further said that he has been a part of the meeting with the district-in-charge minister and other MLAs of the region, recently convened to discuss the development-related aspects of the city. The district in-charge and urban development minister said the problems of basic amenities need to be dealt with urgently, he said.

The MLA felt for a need to clear the misconception about Mangaluru being unsafe. This is because of the exaggeration of a few untoward incidents. The negative image also affects the tourism, he said and added that medical tourism should be given much importance in the city.

KCCI President Vathika Pai submitted a memorandum to the MLA, seeking various development works, including setting up of a container terminal at NMPT, installing Precision Lighting System at the runway of Mangaluru International Airport, Infrastructure development at Mangaluru Junction and Mangaluru Central Railway stations, setting up of State Maritime Board and Baikampady Industrial Township Authority, plastic park and Truck terminal at Baikampady .

Responding to a list of demands from the Kanara Chamber of Commerce and Industry during a felicitation programme to legislators and the minister here, Mr. Kamath said he was aware many works that needed to be executed for the overall development of the district. Being the first-time legislator, Mr. Kamath said, he has a special interest in the overall growth of the region and would work along with various stakeholders to fulfil the expectations.

KCCI Vice-President P B Abdul Hamid and others were present.