Bhatkal: The Karnataka State Cabinet has approved the proposal to upgrade the globally renowned coastal town of Murudeshwar to a Pattan Panchayat, marking a significant administrative step aimed at improving local governance and infrastructure. The decision was taken during a cabinet meeting chaired by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Thursday.
Murudeshwar, famous for its coastline, the towering Shiva statue, and its growing appeal among domestic and international tourists, has been increasingly in need of strengthened civic facilities due to rising visitor numbers. The region’s prominence is also rooted in an ancient legend associated with the Atma Lingam. Traditional accounts narrate that Ravana once received the sacred lingam from Lord Shiva, but due to the divine intervention of Vishnu and Ganesha, he was compelled to set it down at Gokarna. Enraged, he attempted to break it, and the scattered fragments are believed to have fallen across parts of Karnataka. One such fragment is said to have landed on Kanduka Hill in Murudeshwar, contributing to the town’s spiritual and cultural significance.
Murudeshwar’s modern development has been greatly influenced by the vision of Dr. R. N. Shetty, whose initiatives helped transform it into a major tourist centre. To further streamline civic administration and improve public amenities, the government has decided to merge Mavalli-1 and Mavalli-2 Gram Panchayats to create the new “Murudeshwar Pattan Panchayat.”
Reacting to the cabinet’s approval, Bhatkal MLA and State Minister for Fisheries and District In-charge Mankal Vaidya stated that improving the quality of life for local residents remains the government’s top priority.
“Development is central to our policy, and this decision will significantly benefit the people of the region,” he said.
The minister expressed gratitude to Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, Deputy Chief Minister D. K. Shivakumar, Urban Development Minister Byrathi Suresh, and Municipal Administration Minister Rahim Khan for extending their support to the proposal.