Pareekshith Shet
Daijiworld Media Network - Udupi (EP)

Udupi, Jul 2: Though many temporary steps have been taken to prevent sea erosion, the government is yet to find a permanent solution to the problem which is affecting residents living along the shore. The problem turns worse during torrential rains as the violent sea becomes a cause for fear among residents.

The permanent 500-meter long sea wall announced by the government is yet to materialize. Kodi Bengre area in Udupi is in grave danger because of constant sea erosion. The coconut grove oscillates in the strong breeze on the seashore and the waves have the capacity to topple the massive boulders kept to prevent sea erosion.

In a bid to find permanent solution, the government had sanctioned 500-meter long sea wall last year. As per the plan, it should have been completed by now. However, the officials have washed their hands of the project after completing just hundred meters of the wall. The conflict between the contractors and the department concerned has brought the work to a halt.

More than a kilometre wide land has been eroded by the sea in the last two decades. During the violent wind and sea waves, the houses along the shore tremble. The remaining work needs to be completed if the houses need to be protected.

The apathy of the government to erect the permanent barrier appals the locals. Everybody wants to build temporary stone wall as usual and fill their pockets, allege the locals.

The locals are miffed by the behaviour of officials. To make their plea heard, they are getting ready to hold a protest soon. But will their voice reach the corridors of power?