Mohan Kuthar

Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru (MS)

Mangaluru, Mar 18: Students and lecturers of Beary’s institute of Innoli on the outskirts of the city held protest against the laterite stone mining. They said that the mining is causing them health issues due to the dust that is generated. Moreover, they students are unable to hear the lectures in class due to high volume of mining activity.

Though exams are being held in the college, students and lecturers were making preparations to hold a march from the gate of the institution to the site of mining on March 18. They were prevented from doing so by the owner and labourers of the mine. Tense situation prevailed for some time. Police intervention brought the situation under control. Discussion is held to hold a compromise meeting between the owner of the mine and the administrative committee of the college.

Speaking to the media on the occasion, students and lecturers of the college said, “We are unable to hear the lectures due to the laterite stone mining activity that is going on near our college. In addition, we are unable to revise during exam time. Students who are residing in the hostel are not able to sleep for the same reason. College campus is filled with dust. Our clothes and study material like books, bags etc are completely covered with dust. Suitable action needs to be taken by the administration on this issue.”

The students and lecturers also said that their appeals to DC and tahsildar have failed to make any impact. They said that the mining operation is unauthorized.

Defending the mining activity, owner of the laterite stone mining industry said, “We are conducting operation after paying royalty to the government. Because of this industry many families are earning their livelihood. Mining is carried out everywhere. We will approach court over this matter.”