Mangaluru: A five-acre plot owned by the horticulture department at Kadri has been identified for the construction of a 42-storey landmark tower, tentatively named Mangalore Eye.According to a blueprint submitted to the Karnataka tourism department, the 200-metre tower will be developed under a public-private partnership (PPP) model at an estimated cost of Rs 350 crore. The project is envisioned as a major tourism attraction offering panoramic views of Mangaluru and its coastline.The proposed tower will feature a lighthouse on the 42nd floor, an open terrace, observation decks, a two-level gallery with 360-degree views, a skywalk, a food court and a revolving restaurant.Deputy chief minister G Parameshwara, Dakshina Kannada district minister UT Khader and minister for Small Scale Industries and Public Enterprises Vijayanand S Kashappanavar unveiled the project poster during an event held as part of the Mangaluru Cabinet meeting on Friday.Khader told TOI that the project was discussed at the Cabinet meeting chaired by chief minister DK Shivakumar. He said the concept was inspired by iconic towers in other countries and that a blueprint was prepared nearly 18 months ago with the help of an architect.The govt is considering transferring the horticulture department land near Kadri Park for the project. To attract private investment, it plans to provide viability gap funding (VGF) under a revenue-sharing model. Once work begins, the tower is expected to take at least three years to complete.Khader said the project would help place Mangaluru on the global tourism map while boosting employment, trade and business in the region.However, the proposal has drawn criticism from some quarters. Artist and environmentalist Dinesh Holla questioned the need for the project, pointing to the city’s unresolved issues, including poor roads, inadequate drainage, garbage management, water concerns and rising heat. He said these problems should be addressed before pursuing such a landmark development.BoxProject: Mangalore EyeHeight: 200 metresAt a glanceStructure: 42-storey landmark towerEstimated cost: Rs 350 croreModel: Public-private partnershipFeatures: Lighthouse, open terrace, observation deck, two-level 360-degree observation gallery, skywalk, food court and revolving restaurant
