Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru (MS)

Mangaluru, Jun 11: The residents of Battappady seashore near Ullal, who have been severely affected by sea erosion in the past two monsoon seasons, will have to settle for a temporary solution this year as well.

Although a sea wave breaker project, similar to the one at Kasargod Nellikunnu beach, was proposed during the tenure of former minister S Angara, the project faced numerous obstacles and failed to take off.

The months of April and May were consumed by the busy activities of elections and government formation. Currently, the port department is implementing a temporary measure by placing rocks to prevent sea erosion this year. This endeavor, costing Rs 20 lakh, aims to safeguard one or two houses. Typically, temporary measures are undertaken once the monsoon season begins. As the monsoon has been delayed this year, the placement of rocks is still in progress.

Representational image

Commenting on the measure, local MLA and speaker U T Khader stated, "As a temporary measure to protect the existing beach, instructions have been given to place rocks. In the future, a permanent solution to prevent sea erosion will be pursued. Expert suggestions and grant approval are required for this. I will bring this issue to the government's attention."