Daijiworld Media Network – Udupi (MS/KR)

Udupi, Jun 1: Release of oil spill into the marine ecosystem at Malpe beach area was cleaned by the district administration and Malpe development committee together on Wednesday. They collected hazardous materials from the beach, which weighed approximately 50 kg.

Residues found near Malpe beach and St Mary’s Island shore have worried the stakeholders in the tourism sector as such filth tarnishes the image of this beautiful beach, which may impact the footfall also. Sudesh Shetty, the leaseholder for developing Malpe beach said, ”A ship might have released the oil into the water in the deep sea which is now reaching the shore. It is the liquid petroleum hydrocarbon that causes severe damage to the marine ecosystem.”

The oil spill has reached the shoreline in Yermal, Hejamady, Malpe, Kodi Kanyana and Beejadi in the past four-five days. Sudesh Shetty also pointed out that Malpe is the best beach in this temple city. "So, we are worried as oil spill may wash further down and it is difficult to dispose,” added a worried Sudesh.

Local shopkeepers are worried about the impact of the oil spill on tourism development. About 10 volunteers cleaned the Malpe beach on Wednesday and cleaning of St Mary’s Island shore continued on Thursday. Meanwhile, Pollution Control Board officials reviewed the cleanup drive conducted at Malpe beach.