Daijiworld Media Network - Udupi (JD)
Udupi, Nov 30: District-in-charge Minister Lakshmi Hebbalkar emphasised the need for prompt public service and swift resolution of citizens' concerns during the quarterly KDP meeting held on Saturday, November 30, at VS Acharya Hall.
She urged officials to prioritise efficiency, highlighting that delays in government services often create unnecessary issues for the public.
Hebbalkar also addressed the challenges posed by the season's 17% excess rainfall, which caused significant damage to crops, roads, government buildings, and infrastructure. While relief measures have already been implemented, the minister acknowledged the funding constraints for restoration work and assured that efforts are underway to secure additional funds through discussions with the Chief Minister and district legislators.
The minister highlighted ongoing projects aimed at preventing freshwater wastage in coastal areas through the construction of check dams. A total of 666 check dams have been completed in the district.
Hebbalkar instructed officials to install planks on these dams by December 20 and repair any damaged structures using the allocated funds. She also called for a scientific report on the impact of these check dams on groundwater levels.
On fisheries and coastal development, Hebbalkar noted that 80% of the Hejamadi fisheries port project is complete and urged officials to expedite the completion of the remaining work. She also directed that road repairs in fishing areas damaged by rain be prioritised. Proposals for coastal berth development at Gangolli and Hangarakatte are under review, with necessary approvals being pursued.
The minister expressed concern about tribal communities, especially those without ration cards, facing difficulties in accessing government schemes. She urged officials to ensure that all eligible individuals receive benefits and called for the swift completion of the Varahi irrigation project, which will benefit 2,700 hectares of farmland.
Regarding land rights, Hebbalkar noted that over 22,000 applications under Sections 94C and 53 were rejected and instructed officials to survey non-forest areas to identify suitable land for distribution to eligible applicants. She stressed the need for expediting the issuance of ownership documents.
The issue of additional hostels in Udupi district was also discussed, with the minister acknowledging the demand for more facilities under the Social Welfare Department. She also called for the immediate resolution of technical issues affecting solid waste management in rural areas and urged efforts to make Udupi a plastic waste-free district.
The minister addressed challenges faced by citizens seeking house construction permissions, particularly issues related to Sections 9 and 11 of the law. She directed the revenue, RDPR, and urban development departments to resolve these issues and streamline the process. Additionally, she instructed officials to ensure the availability of sand and red stones for construction, in compliance with regulations.
The meeting concluded with a focus on several development projects, including the establishment of a seafood park in Byndoor taluk, which has already been allotted 69 acres of land. Hebbalkar emphasised the importance of preserving as many trees as possible during the land-clearing process.
The meeting was attended by MLAs Sunil Kumar, Gurme Suresh Shetty, Yashpal Suvarna, and others, along with officials including Deputy Commissioner Dr K Vidya Kumari, Udupi District SP Dr Arun, ZP CEO Prateek and various departmental heads.
The minister urged all stakeholders to coordinate effectively and ensure the timely completion of the district’s development goals.