Mon Jan 27 16:11:58 UTC 2025: ## Udupi MLA Calls for Public Hearing Before CMC Upgrade to City Corporation

**Mangalore, Karnataka –** The Udupi City Municipal Council (CMC) is considering upgrading to a City Corporation, a proposal that has sparked debate. MLA Yashpal Suvarna advocated for a public hearing to gauge residents’ opinions before proceeding, arguing that the current infrastructure is insufficient, even in existing CMC areas.

Suvarna highlighted the lack of basic amenities like proper roads and drainage in several areas, suggesting that including additional gram panchayats (Katpady, Kote, and Manipura) without addressing these deficiencies would only worsen the situation. He proposed a phased approach, suggesting a five-year timeline contingent on a ₹25 crore government grant for infrastructure improvements in each panchayat. He cited the previous upgrade from Town Municipal Council to CMC, where areas like Malpe and Manipal still lack adequate infrastructure, as a cautionary tale.

Municipal Commissioner Uday Kumar Shetty noted the criteria for city corporation status, including a population of 3 lakh, a population density of 3,000 per sq.km, and ₹6 crore in revenue. The CMC has prepared a draft proposal. The Directorate of Municipal Administration requested a proposal from the Udupi Deputy Commissioner on January 9.

The meeting also addressed the issue of street dog menace, with discussions focusing on responsibility for dog bites and the need for a district-wide strategy. The CMC plans to designate feeding areas for street dogs and utilize existing sterilization facilities in Manipal and Malpe.

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