Mangaluru: Renovation of Kadri Hills War Memorial begins

The Kadri Hills War Memorial, built in 1992 to honour martyrs of the Indian armed forces, is set to undergo a major renovation. Surrounded by lush greenery in a compact area, the memorial’s upkeep has been managed by the Ex-Servicemen’s Association. Events like Kargil Vijay Diwas and Vijay Diwas are held here annually, drawing significant public participation. To better accommodate visitors, plans for expansion and a makeover were initiated.

Renovation Launched

The groundwork for the renovation was initiated in August when Union Minister of State for Railways, V. Somanna, performed the ceremonial groundbreaking. He also pledged to contribute his one-month salary for the project. Local MLA Vedavyas Kamath allocated Rs 25 lakh for the work.

Though initial progress faced delays due to the Legislative Council by-elections, the work resumed in December, starting with the concrete pillars.

Proposed Facilities

Currently, the memorial consists only of the monument and a surrounding fence, with no other amenities. Conducting events during the monsoon season has been challenging due to the lack of a roof. The renovation plan includes:

• Enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the memorial.
• Adding a three-tiered gallery with a roof.
• Installing interlocking tiles around the memorial.
• Constructing separate restrooms for men and women.

Mangaluru City Corporation (MCC) has allocated Rs 25 lakh from its budget for the renovation.

Other War Memorials

Funds have also been allocated for two other memorials in Mangaluru:

1. Rs 15 lakh for a memorial at Kottara Chowki in honor of Capt. Pranjal.
2. Rs 15 lakh for a memorial in Kulasekhar to commemorate Air Force officer Flight Kevin Ronald Seravo, who passed away a decade ago.

Project Funding

The Kadri Hills War Memorial renovation is being funded through a special grant of Rs 25 lakh from the State Finance Commission for 2021–22, facilitated by MLA Vedavyas Kamath. An additional Rs 5 lakh has been allocated from the general fund of the MCC, bringing the total budget to Rs 31 lakh.

“The Kadri Hills War Memorial will be completely renovated by the MCC. The revamped memorial will get a new look and is expected to be completed by January 26, 2025,” said C.L. Anand, Commissioner of the MCC.