Pics: Jeevan D’costa

Daijiworld Media Network – Udupi (JD)

Udupi, Oct 14: The Jayashreekrishna Parisara Premi Samiti has urged the government to institute a long-term strategy to address coastal erosion in Karnataka and substantially enhance tourism in the region.

During a press conference in Udupi, Thonse Jayakrishna Shetty, the founder of the Samiti, remarked, "The Jayashreekrishna Parisara Premi Samiti has been engaged in various developmental initiatives for the twin districts over the past 23 years. Our endeavors, such as bringing the Nagarjuna Thermal Power Project to Udupi, upgrading Mangaluru airport to international standards, extending the lease of the Kudremukh Iron Ore Company, establishing the Mangaluru–Bengaluru rail link, and developing the Mangaluru Special Economic Zone, have garnered praise from various government departments and ministries. Today, we are calling on the government to devise a permanent solution to the coastal Karnataka's sea erosion issue. Mumbai has had a noteworthy and effective solution in place for a considerable period. I have spoken with the Karnataka government's minister to visit the site, inspect the project, and implement a similar approach along Karnataka's coastal belt."

Dr Raju, the president of the Dakshina Kannada and Udupi committee, addressed the audience, saying, "We advocate development with environmental conservation. Approximately 50-60 kilometers of the sea experiences intense roughness, and the surrounding areas are significantly impacted by severe sea erosion. Each year, vast sums of money are allocated to sea erosion breakwater projects, yet none have succeeded. We are urging the government to find a permanent remedy for this issue. Coastal districts have tremendous tourism potential, but there has been inadequate support for tourism. Our Shirdai, Charmadi, Agumbe, Hulikal, Bisle ghats experience significant difficulties during the monsoon season, affecting smooth vehicular movement. Good roads and infrastructure are crucial for tourism development."

"In the interest of environmental conservation, we are also appealing to the government to establish electrical crematoriums in every taluk. The burning of corpses consumes a significant amount of fodder, which has adverse effects on the environment. Electrical crematoriums will alleviate this environmental burden," he added.

The event was attended by Jagadish Adikari, vice president Naveen Shetty Manila, Ravi S Devadiga, Surendra Mendon, Prof Shanker, and Mundkuru Surendra Salian.