With the State government set to hold its first Cabinet meeting in Mangaluru on Friday, the Kanara Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) has appealed to Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar to set up an integrated or multi-modal logistics park in the city.

The concept of establishing the park in Mangaluru is compelling due to its strategic location, infrastructure, and resources, its president P.B. Ahmed Mudassar said in a memorandum submitted to the Chief Minister.

With the city’s proximity to major international markets, with Dubai and Singapore less than five hours’ flying time away, combined with the availability of land and strong connectivity via sea, air and road, Mangaluru can position itself as a premier logistics hub.

“This logistics park would cater to various needs, including mechanized warehouses, cold storage, customs clearance services, and Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) operations. With these elements in place, Mangaluru could significantly enhance its role in regional and international logistics, supporting cities like Mumbai, Pune, Kochi, Bengaluru, and Dubai,” the president said.

He said the government had earlier proposed the acquisition of 1,050 acres of land in Udupi and Dakshina Kannada districts to promote industrial development, with a focus on supporting Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). This long-pending issue has significantly impacted several MSMEs that were planning to establish operations in the region. The delay not only hinders local economic growth but also risks the relocation of industries to other districts or states with more accessible infrastructure and support. A timely intervention is essential to expedite the process and retain industrial interest in the region, ensuring that the vision for a thriving MSME ecosystem in Balkunje becomes a reality.

JESCO and KISCO lands

KCCI said approximately 400 acres of JESCO land and 50 acres of KISCO land have remained unutilized for over 30 years. “We request that these lands be repossessed and reallocated exclusively to MSMEs to unlock industrial potential,” Mr. Mudassar said.

Referring to infrastructure projects at Baikampady Industrial Area, the KCCI said the proposed ₹50-crore water treatment plant by KIADB will remain ineffective without a proper underground drainage system, which must be prioritized. A reliable and uninterrupted power supply is crucial for industries. Underground power cabling is essential in the area to prevent losses and ensure efficiency. Many roads in the area are in unmotorable condition, affecting the movement of goods. These roads require urgent repairs to support industrial logistics.

International exhibition centre

The president said Mangaluru is a cultural melting pot of the coastal Karnataka region, and this diversity has long shaped it into a natural centre of trade, education, and healthcare. Yet the region lacks a dedicated international exhibition centre to match its economic potential. Home to the State’s only all-weather deep-draft port, an international airport with direct connectivity to West Asia, and a strong base of medical and educational institutions that draw people from across the country and abroad, Mangaluru is well positioned to serve as a gateway for exhibitors, buyers, and investors from across the region.

KCCI requested the government to identify suitable land to set up the centre.