Mangalore: Netravati Drowning Case - AMR Power Project Denies Allegations
Daijiworld Media Network - Mangalore
Mangalore, Dec 8: Following allegations that three youngsters drowned in Netravati river at Nandavar on Tuesday December 6 due to the sudden release of water by AMR power project, the company has issued a statement to the media denying all charges levelled against it by the locals.
"AMR Power Private Ltd has been generating electricity by constructing a barrage across river Netravathi, near Shambur village since 12.9.2009. We have been supplying this power to MESCOM since commissioning. We are following all processes and controls in the Operation of our Project. Water releases from the Dam and Project are controlled by State Irrigation Department. We do take all precautions whenever water is required to be released as per directions of the State Departments," the release stated.
It may be recalled that on December 6, three youngsters Jitesh, Yashodhar and Laxmeesha drowned in Netravati river while swimming. The locals alleged that sudden release of water by the AMR project without warning or sounding of sirens was responsible for their deaths. The locals demanded stalling of the project and also alleged that as many as 11 persons had died due to negligence on AMR's part over the last three years. They also demanded compensation for the victims' families from the company.
In its defence, AMR in the media release stated, "We do take all actions required to avoid any inconvenience or damage to the general public. However, we are surprised to know through some newspapers that three persons drowned recently in river Netravati near Nandavar of Sajipamunnuru village which is about 8 km downstream of our project. This incident did not happen because of sudden release of water from our barrage as mentioned in the newspapers."
Denying charges that there was a sudden rise in the water level, it clarified, "The water level is monitored 24 hours both at intake and tail race, for this sufficient material is there. In fact the water flow from our Project is at same level during the time of this incidence and at all times during the day. All these facts are genuine."
It also denied allegations that 11 persons had died due to its negligence. "The news that nine, ten or eleven people drowned because of sudden release of water from our barrage as mentioned in the newspapers is completely false and baseless. It was not uncommon to drown in the river in Netravati even before the commission of our project due to various reasons."
It also ruled out compensation for the families stating, "We do sympathize with the bereaved families and we offer condolences. But, seeking compensation from our company is not justified and it is unlawful, against equity, good conscience and also against the principles of natural justice. Hence, we are not liable to pay from any angle."