Pics: Spoorthi Ullal
Daijiworld Media Network – Mangalore (VM)

Mangalore, May 23: The newly-elected MLA from Mangalore South J R Lobo on Thursday May 23 visited old fisheries port at Bunder here and inspected the dredging work and the third phase of yard work along with other officials.

A number of fishermen and contractors discussed vairous problems with MLA Lobo.

Currently at the port, the 3rd phase work has been undertaken where 750 diaphragm wall is being constructed. Once it is done dredging work will begin.

There are around 2,200 fishing boats at the port at present.

Lobo was assisted by A S Rao, assistant executive engineer of the port who explained the project structure.

Speaking to media persons during the visit, Lobo said work on the third phase of the 63,000-square meter yard at fisheries port and 30,000 square meter yard at Bengre was going on from the past 2 years at a cost of Rs 56.7 crore.

"The work is going on smoothly and the contractors and labourers are doing good work. But people of Bolar, Hoige Bazar and other places are facing a few problems. I will try to find a permanent solution for them," he said.

"In the present project, there is no provision for construction of breakwater wall at Netravati river, which is a major problem," said Lobo, "Another problem is near Hoige Bazar where the ramp is broken. In this place, as many as 70 fishermen families live and they carry out dry fish activities. As the ramp is broken, there is a possibility that water might enter the place during the rainy season."

In this regard, Lobo said that he has asked the engineer to prepare a budget for these projects and once ready, he will discuss it with the government along with the fisheries minister. This apart, the work is going on smoothly, added Lobo.