A B Ibrahim bats for horizontal growth of the Mangalore city

January 12, 2014

Mangalore, Jan 12: Deputy Commissioner of Dakshina Kannada and administrator of Mangalore City Corporation AB Ibrahim has suggested horizontal growth of the Mangalore city for the development of infrastructures and to avoid the conjunction.

He was reacting to the memorandum handed over by the Kanara Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Mangalore demanding change in hiked trade licence fees under Mangalore City Corporation, withdrawal of Netravati river diversion project, enforcement of the provisions of food safety and standard act, development of information technology parks, formation of separate railway division for Mangalore, railway over bridge at Padil, footpath on concrete roads and storm water drains, drinking water scarcity, comfort road travel, international standard sports complex, exhibition centre, facelift to Nehru Maidan and other.

Recalling his service in Mangalore during the year 1999, Mr Ibrahim said even after 15 years the same problems have remained resolved. For the development of Mangalore city the horizontal developments are required. Layouts development in more than thousands acre area to the three dimensions of the city will help for the development of better infrastructure. Even the roads, buildings, parks and other basic amenities can be created for the healthy atmosphere. “The major difficulties of the city can sort with developing layouts,” he opined.

Speaking about the amendment in allotting permission for single layout housing sites in city premise the DC said “earlier public were having difficulty in getting licence from Mangalore Urban Development Authority for site below 12 cents. Public had to move to city corporation and get permission from both the places. But we have formed a policy of getting licence from City Corporation for site below 10 cents. This has to be approved by the government now, he said. To avail the changes in trade licence fee, one meeting will be called with MCC officials within a week and discussed the changes, he said.

Comparing the Mysore city to Mangalore city, he said there is much difference between the infrastructure plans of Mysore and Mangalore. Roads in Mangalore are narrow and have no width. They are not planned and need to be developed for the better transport facility, he said calling it as 'man created problems'.

Declining to speak on Yettinahole project, Mr Ibrahim said, “I can convey public feelings to government in this regard. It is a government project and public have to speak to the ministers. Question rises on the failed efforts by public to oppose the project,” he said.

However, the drinking water problems will not be occurred in city. The construction of new vented dam will be completed by May month. To reach 7 meter of water level there is need of land acquisition. With present land water can be stored only for 4 meters of height. New land acquisition act is strict and do not allow for land acquisition easily, said Mr Ibrahim.

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Philanthropist, Visionary Entrepreneur, A K Group Founder M Ahmed passes away

coastaldigest.com news network

October 8,2024

Mangaluru, Oct 8: The city of Mangaluru mourns the loss of M Ahmed, a pioneering businessman, philanthropist, and the Founder Chairman of the AK Group. He passed away on Tuesday morning at the age of 76, leaving behind a legacy that spans decades of service, innovation, and community building.

M Ahmed, also fondly known as A K Ahmed, was a man of humble beginnings who grew into one of the most respected entrepreneurs in South India. He founded the AK Group in 1984, which has since flourished into a multi-faceted business empire. The company, which began as a small frame manufacturing unit, now encompasses a wide range of industries, including plywood, formaldehyde, particle boards, fire-rated products, and more. AK Group's growth extended beyond India, with manufacturing units established in Myanmar and Vietnam.

What began with 18 employees in 1984 has today expanded to provide employment to approximately 3,000 people in India and 400 abroad. M Ahmed’s dedication and vision were instrumental in transforming the company into a market leader, recognized for its high-quality products and innovation. AK Plywood is now one of India’s top plywood manufacturers, and the largest in South India. The company was Karnataka’s first plywood manufacturer to receive ISO certification and has garnered prestigious awards, including the Rising Stars Power Brands Award in London (2017) and the Best Manufacturer Award from MSME Karnataka (2018).

Ahmed’s business success was deeply rooted in values instilled in him during his early years. He worked alongside his father, the late Abdul Khader Moopa, loading sawn timber, and it was from these humble beginnings that he developed his work ethic, pioneering spirit, and respect for time—values that remained the cornerstone of his remarkable career.

His foresight was evident when he recognized the potential of timber from Perumbavoor, Kerala, for plywood and blockboards at a time when it was merely being used as firewood. This strategic move led to the establishment of one of the first frame manufacturing and peeling units there, and soon after, Ahmed launched his own company in Mangaluru, swiftly earning national and international recognition.

Beyond plywood, the AK Group has diversified into multiple industries, including marine food, pharmaceuticals, construction materials, hypermarkets in India and the UAE, and food industries in Indonesia. Under Ahmed’s leadership, the company’s reach expanded, ensuring its position as a formidable player in various sectors.

Ahmed was not only an extraordinary businessman but also a deeply compassionate individual, dedicated to social and religious causes. He served as the founding president of the managing committee of Ihsan Masjid in Mangaluru and established the Highland Educational and Cultural Centre. His philanthropic efforts were as vast as his business ventures, benefiting countless communities both in India and abroad.

His kindness, simplicity, and punctuality were hallmarks of his character. Those who knew him admired his unyielding commitment to excellence, as well as his warmth and generosity. M Ahmed is survived by his wife, three daughters, and four sons, who continue his legacy of philanthropy and social service.

As news of his passing spread, tributes poured in from all sectors of society. Social, religious, and political leaders in Mangaluru expressed their deep sorrow over the loss of a man who dedicated his life to improving the lives of others.

M Ahmed’s journey from humble beginnings to massive success will continue to inspire generations. His life serves as a testament to the power of vision, perseverance, and, above all, integrity.

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