Daijiworld Media Network - Udupi (HB/SP)

Udupi, Jan 27: In one voice, fishermen and locals stressed that the proposed marina beach project at Padukere, Malpe, will not be allowed to be executed. Their opposition for the project came during their face-to-face discussions with local MLA K Raghupati Bhat, here on Tuesday January 26.

The fishermen had earlier expressed their opinion that they are against the proposed marina beach project at Padukere. During the discussions with the legislator on Tuesday, efforts made by Bhat to convince the people to support the project went in vain. Prakash Malpe, who led the deliberations, placed before the meeting a resolution containing nine points.

Addressing the people later, Bhat explained that the marina beach project is still at the stage of proposal and no decisions have been taken. He said that discussions are on to prepare a report after undertaking study by the Central Water and Power Research Station through Coastal Development Authority which will cover advantages and disadvantages. "The preparation of the report will take not less than a year. Marine Tech has been earmarked to conduct the study. It is my responsibility to ensure that the people of Shantinagara, Padukere, do not face any problems because of the project," he said.

Bhat assured that he would not allow pubs, clubs, hotels etc to come up even if the marina beach project materializes. He felt that show rooms, and entertainment outlets might be established, and asserted that any decision that hurts fishing activity or culture will not be allowed. He said that once the report is received, the experts will be invited to take part in face to face discussions as he does not have a clear-cut standing of internal problems of the fishing industry. Noting and anchoring of local and international boats will be separate, he said that once the report comes, a detailed study of all aspects will be undertaken.

Village elder, Rama Kanchan, said that he is aware about the problems arising out of marina beach and an expert report is not necessary. He predicted that once marina comes, there will be problems at the estuary and whenever there is cyclone, restrictions will be imposed in isles where the boats get protection. He suggested to create normal beach for tourists and felt that nature should be conserved. Bhuvan Kotian too said that senior people of the community are experts in the subject and there is no need for a scientific report.

Speaking at the end, Prakash Malpe said that the locals will not allow survey and other works, and irrespective of what recommendation the report makes, activities connected with the project will not be allowed. He advised to use one crore rupees for good purpose.

Zilla panchayat president Dinakar Babu, taluk panchayat vice president Rajendra Pandubettu, and others were present.