Mangalore to Udupi Metro

A metro connecting Mangaluru, Udupi, and Manipal? Yes, it’s finally in the works—and it could be one of the most exciting infrastructure projects for Coastal Karnataka.

The Karnataka state government has taken the first steps to bring this vision to life with a proposed 64-kilometer metro rail corridor aimed at improving connectivity, reducing traffic congestion, and supporting urban and industrial growth along the coastal belt.

What’s the Plan?

The Mangalore–Udupi–Manipal Metro Corridor is being planned to:

  • Link key urban, semi-urban, and industrial zones
  • Connect important hubs like airports, railway stations, highways, and ports
  • Reduce heavy traffic on NH-66
  • Offer a fast, clean, and sustainable transport system

The corridor will make daily travel easier for students, professionals, industrial workers, and tourists moving between these cities.

Who’s Working on It?

The Urban Development Department has directed the Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL) to conduct a detailed feasibility study for the metro line. Deputy Commissioners of Dakshina Kannada and Udupi have also been involved to help assess the ground realities.

A key proposal was submitted by S. Mohanadass Hegde, a former KPCC secretary, highlighting the technical, financial, and environmental feasibility of the project. His vision includes integrating the metro with smart city and electric vehicle (EV) initiatives under the National Infrastructure Pipeline (NIP) and Gati Shakti programs.

Why Is It Important?

With population and traffic rapidly growing, the coastal stretch between Mangaluru and Manipal is under pressure. The metro project is expected to:

  • Cut travel time
  • Improve road safety
  • Reduce pollution
  • Boost economic growth and real estate along the route

It will also enhance accessibility to:

  • Educational hubs like Deralakatte, Mangalore, Manipal and NITK Surathkal
  • Healthcare centers in Deralakatte
  • Ports and industrial zones

How Will It Be Done?

The metro is expected to be implemented in two phases:

  • Phase 1 (2025–2027): Land acquisition, groundwork, and early construction
  • Phase 2 (2028–2030): Full-scale construction, testing, and approvals

A hybrid funding model is being proposed that includes:

  • Government funding (State and Central)
  • Public-Private Partnerships (PPP)
  • International investors

Approvals will be required from the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, Ministry of Railways, NITI Aayog, and other regulatory bodies.

Route Highlights (Proposed)

The metro may connect:

  • Mangalore Central
  • Kottara
  • Surathkal
  • Mulki
  • Padubidri
  • Kaup
  • Udupi City
  • Manipal University Area

This will make daily commutes smoother for thousands of residents and students.

A Smart and Green Future

The project aligns with India’s future-ready urban mobility goals, including:

  • Electric vehicle integration
  • Smart city connectivity
  • Eco-friendly design
  • Reduced dependency on road transport

In Simple Words…

The Mangalore–Udupi–Manipal Metro is no longer just a dream. Backed by the government, driven by experts, and supported by the public—it’s a future-forward solution for Coastal Karnataka.

  • If implemented, this will:
  • Save time
  • Boost the economy
  • Make commuting easier and greener
  • Put Deralakatte, Mangaluru, Udupi & Manipal on India’s smart mobility map