Dinesh Gundu Rao.
Credit: DH Photo
Mangaluru: District in-charge Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao directed officials to initiate measures for the construction of long-awaited Ranga Mandira in Mangaluru.
The minister presiding over a meeting of officials at Inspection Bungalow in Bantwal, said a proposal seeking administrative approval for the Rs 9.95 crore project had been submitted to government.
"I have discussed the issue with Kannada and Culture Minister Shivaraj Tangadagi and the government’s approval will be obtained soon,” he said.
Once the government approval is received, Mangaluru City Corporation (MCC) should proceed with the tender process for project. The minister reviewed the project's design and stressed the need for a fully equipped Ranga Mandira.
He emphasised that the construction should incorporate designs and technology that enhances cultural activities.
The available Rs 9.95 crore should be utilised to complete the main structure, while additional funds required for interior design, lighting, and sound systems will be released by Kannada and Culture Department, MCC and Mangaluru Urban Development Authority (MUDA), the minister assured.
As the location in Bondel is deemed suitable for Ranga Mandira, he instructed officials to include access roads and other infrastructure in the project plan. DK Deputy Commissioner Mullai Muhilan MP briefed the minister about the project.
MCC Commissioner Ravichandra Nayak, Zilla Panchayat Deputy Secretary Jayalakshmi, Assistant Director of Kannada and Culture Department Rajesh G, District Information Officer B A Khader Shah among others were also present.