Surathkal is a prominent suburb in the northern part of Mangaluru taluk, Karnataka, India, situated on the Arabian Sea coast. It was formerly an independent town but has since merged with the Mangaluru City Corporation, becoming an integral part of the larger city's administration [1, 2]. Known for its educational institutions and industrial presence, Surathkal is also recognized for its scenic beaches, which attract both locals and visitors [1, 3].

The name "Surathkal" is believed to be derived from "shiradakal," meaning "headstone" in both Kannada and Tulu languages. This etymology is linked to a local Hindu mythological legend involving Lord Ganesha and a Shivalinga, with the famous Sadashiva Mahaganapathi Temple said to be built around a piece of this divine artifact [3, 4]. This blend of historical significance, educational prominence, and industrial activity makes Surathkal a crucial locality within coastal Karnataka [1].

• Surathkal is located on National Highway 66 (formerly NH-17), a major arterial road [1].
• It is approximately 8 kilometers north of the New Mangalore Seaport (NMPT) [1].
• The town is situated 4 kilometers west of Mangalore Refinery and Petrochemicals Limited (MRPL) [1].
• Mangalore International Airport is conveniently located about 16 kilometers from Surathkal [1].
• The Surathkal Railway Station is a key point on the Konkan railway route, connecting Mangaluru to major Indian cities like Mumbai [1].
• The region is an integral part of Tulunadu, also known as Karavali, which signifies the coastal region of Karnataka state [1].
• The Surathkal Lighthouse, a notable landmark, was officially commissioned in 1972 [1].
• The area generally has an average elevation of 24 meters (79 feet) above sea level [1].

Surathkal’s administrative evolution saw it transition from a Grama Panchayat to a Town Panchayat, and eventually, it was officially merged with the Mangaluru City Corporation (MCC) through a Government notification on December 31, 1974 [1]. As a result of this merger, Surathkal now operates under the civic administration of the MCC. To facilitate local governance and services, a zonal office of the Mangaluru City Corporation was established in Surathkal on March 6, 2017 [1].

This zonal office oversees several key wards, including Surathkal (West), Surathkal (East), Katipalla (West), Katipalla-Krishnapura, Katipalla (North), Idya (East), Idya (West), Hosabettu, Kulai, Baikampady, Panambur, and Bengre [1]. Furthermore, Surathkal is designated as a Hobli within the Mangaluru taluk by the Karnataka state Revenue Department, with a "Nada Katcheri" responsible for property and revenue-related matters. The Surathkal Police Station also falls under the jurisdiction of the Commissioner of Mangaluru city police, ensuring law and order in the locality [1].

Surathkal stands as a significant industrial and commercial hub within the broader Dakshina Kannada district. The region is home to several major industries, playing a crucial role in Karnataka’s economic landscape. Prominent establishments include Mangalore Refinery and Petrochemicals Limited (MRPL), BASF (a German chemical company), and Mangalore Chemicals and Fertilizers (MCF) [1, 3]. These large-scale industries contribute substantially to the local economy and employment.

Further enhancing its industrial profile, the Baikampady Industrial Estate is located approximately 6 kilometers from Surathkal. This estate serves as a vital center for numerous small and medium-sized industries, supporting a diverse manufacturing base. The New Mangalore Port (NMPT), situated nearby, is instrumental in facilitating trade for these industries, handling the import of raw materials and the export of finished goods to various destinations across India and internationally [1]. In addition to industrial activities, fishing remains a traditional and important occupation for many residents in this coastal area, with local products sold throughout the surrounding regions [5].

Surathkal, being a significant locality within the Mangaluru City Corporation, possesses a well-developed infrastructure network that supports its industrial, educational, and residential needs. Road connectivity is robust, with National Highway 66 (formerly NH-17) directly passing through the area, providing seamless access to major cities and towns [1, 3]. The city's internal and intercity bus services are efficiently managed by private operators, supplemented by the Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC), ensuring convenient public transportation for residents [6].

Rail services are a crucial component of Surathkal's infrastructure, with the Surathkal railway station located on the Konkan railway route. This connects Mangaluru, and by extension Surathkal, to key metropolitan areas like Mumbai and Chennai [1, 3]. Furthermore, the proximity of the New Mangalore Sea Port (NMPT), located just 8 km away, highlights its strategic importance for trade and logistics, handling significant volumes of imported and exported goods globally [1, 3]. Air travel is facilitated by the Mangalore International Airport, situated approximately 16 km from Surathkal, offering domestic and international flight options [1].