Pics: Spoorthi Ullal

Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru (DV)

Mangaluru, Jul 7: An Environment Public Hearing meeting was organized by the Karnataka State Pollution Control Board and New Mangalore Port Trust (NMPT) on behalf of the construction of the 17th berth at Mangaluru Port here on Friday, July 7.

Social activist Shashidhar Shetty said, “Officials should bring to the notice of the public in advance before holding any environmental public hearing. Such events should be given wide publicity. The public from the district should take part in this meeting. The officials should inform in advance to the public.”

An official responded that the department had given advertisements in two national newspapers and one in the regional newspaper.

On the export of iron ore, Shashidhar Shetty said, "Several deaths have taken place due to the lorries carrying iron ore". He also added that the Phalguni river has been polluted due to release of industrial waste into it.

Activist Kishore Attavar demanded that local youth should get employment opportunities in upcoming projects in the district.

Social activist GK Bhat said, “The NMPT has allotted Rs six lac for the protection of cattle. But unfortunately, several cattle are dying due to railway accidents. At least once a month, the NMPT authority should allow the locals to visit the port.” He also added that the NMPT should take the initiative to plant 10,000 saplings.

Vasudev B Karkera informed that local fishermen should get employment opportunities in upcoming projects in the district.

Naveen Kumar Baikampady said that a school and a hospital should be constructed in the region. It will be useful for the local fishermen community, he said.

Mohan Kodikal alleged that the members of the fishermen community is suffering from cancer due to pollution from industries. “If people suffer from illness, the company should bare the medical expenses,” he added.

Deputy commissioner (DC) of Dakshina Kannada Mullai Mugilan and other officials were present.