MRPL-ONGC gives nod to Rangamandir project

Mangalore, Nov 21 (UNI) The MRPL-ONGC has agreed in principle to the proposal of the Rs 17 crore Rangamandir project here, Fisheries and Dakshina Kannada district incharge Minister B Nagaraja Shetty said today.

Addressing a press conference after meeting top officials from MRPL-ONGC and the district administration here, he said the officials have sought the submission of the plan and structural design of the proposed Rangamandir project, which would be placed before the company Board for approval. During the discussions, the officials have also agreed in principle to enhance the company's contributions.

He said the project cost, earlier estimated at Rs 14 crore, had now escalated to Rs 17 crore. The district administration, besides seeking funds from the State Government, had also decided to approach various financial institutions and corporate giants like Infosys and Mangalore Chemicals and Fertilisers Limited. The entire responsibility of construction of Rangamandir and maintenance for the next three-year period woud be taken up by the MRPL-ONGC.

Mr Shetty, who also chaired a meeting convened to discuss holding the annual 'Karavali Utsav', announced that the festival would be held from December 21 for 45 days. The district administration had a surplus fund of Rs 1.05 crore from the Karavali Utsav during the previous years which would be utilised for the Rangamandir project.

He said Chief Minister H D Kumaraswamy and Deputy Chief Minister B S Yediyurappa would be invited to participate in the inaugural of the fest. The meeting had decided to hold such festivals at all taluk levels. It had also decided to hold an 'Air Show' as part of the festival during the third week of January. Top artists of national and international fame would be invited to perform.

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