Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru (SP)

Mangaluru, Dec 10: Till about a year back, it was difficult to walk through Gujjarakere pond surroundings. However, after the execution of development works here, it has acquired a new look. The number of people visiting Gujjarakere for taking a stroll, take rest etc has been rising by the day. There are people who worry that this has also been creating problems in their conservation of the purity and sanctity of the pond.

It is often seen that many among those who come here to enjoy nature and feel fresh, venture into the pond. As the pond is very deep, there is risk for the life of both the children and the elders if there is a little carelessness. People are also seen throwing biscuits and other food into the water for the fish. But because of them, the water might get polluted and pose grave danger to the marine life, office bearers of Gujjarakere Theertha Conservation Forum feel.

Some young men, who come here to have a look at the tank and to take some rest, often are seen throwing cigarette butts after smoking, into the pond and polluting the water. Polluted water gets into the pond on the northeast corner. As a result, a green, thick layer of pollutants has been seen floating on the water. It can also be seen that plastic has got accumulated at the bottom.

The forum has urged the district administration to take suitable steps to lock all the gates through which people can get into the pond and ensure that unnecessarily no one goes in. The people should be kept informed about the need to protect the water, its history and religious background through educational placards around the pond, the office bearers said, adding that it should preserved as a holy pond with clear, unpolluted water.

Mayor Premananda Shetty, while urging the people to understand the importance of the pond and behave responsibility, warned that those who pollute the tank will face stern action.