Bhatkal: Karnataka cabinet approves proposal to upgrade Murdeshwar to Pattan Panchayat

Bhatkal: 29 November,25 (Bhatkallyus News Bureau) The Karnataka State Cabinet has approved a proposal to upgrade Murudeshwar to a Pattan Panchayat, a move aimed at strengthening local governance and improving public infrastructure in the fast-growing coastal town. The decision was taken during a cabinet meeting chaired by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah.

Murudeshwar, known for its coastline, the Shiva statue and its rising tourist footfall, has been facing increasing pressure on civic services. The town also holds cultural and religious importance linked to the legend of the Atma Lingam, with traditional accounts associating Kanduka Hill with fragments of the lingam said to have been dropped by Ravana.

Much of Murudeshwar’s recent development is attributed to the work of Dr. R. N. Shetty, whose projects helped turn the town into a major tourist destination. To streamline civic administration, the government has approved the merger of Mavalli-1 and Mavalli-2 Gram Panchayats to form the new Murudeshwar Pattan Panchayat.

Reacting to the decision, Bhatkal MLA and State Minister for Fisheries and District In-charge Mankal Vaidya said the move is expected to benefit local residents.

“Development is central to our policy, and this decision will significantly benefit the people of the region,” he said.

The minister thanked Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, Deputy Chief Minister D. K. Shivakumar, Urban Development Minister Byrathi Suresh and Municipal Administration Minister Rahim Khan for supporting the proposal.