Pics: Sumanth Poojary
Daijiworld Media Network – Udupi (TP)
Udupi, Jul 13: After persistent protests by villagers, Udupi MLA Yashpal Suvarna has successfully addressed the waste management issue in Thenkanidiyoor panchayat. The dumped waste was removed and relocated on July 13.
Under the initiative of MLA Yashpal Suvarna, the underground dumped waste was extracted and moved to the Karval waste dumping site immediately after a second fierce protest from the villagers. While a temporary solution has been provided, including clearing waterlogged areas using MLA funds, the villagers demand a permanent resolution by shutting down the SLRM unit.
Kamala S. Amin, a resident, expressed appreciation for MLA Suvarna, stating, "The underground waste contamination of our well water prompted our protest. Despite no response from the panchayat, MLA Suvarna swiftly addressed our issue. We demanded clean drinking water from our well, and MLA Suvarna made it possible. We are dissatisfied with the panchayat president who sends delegates to respond to villagers when we voice our concerns."
Raja Naik, another resident, remarked, "MLA Yashpal Suvarna upheld justice for our protest. During yesterday's general meeting amid the protest, BJP members faced disruptions from Congress members, who forcefully dragged BJP members from the meeting hall. We do not want Congress gram panchayat members who neglect our issues. It was their decision to dump waste underground without investing their funds, only aiming to pass bills. While MLA Suvarna provided a temporary solution, the permanent resolution lies with the Panchayat President. If they do not provide us with a permanent solution, we will definitely teach them a lesson."
Another local resident expressed contentment with MLA Suvarna's initiative in temporarily resolving the waste issue, stating, "We are pleased that MLA Yashpal Suvarna took action to remove the waste and promised to clear the waterlogging. We demand the closure of the SLRM unit to secure a permanent solution. We are adamant about preventing future waste dumping here, and the panchayat authorities have assured us they will refrain from doing so."