Mohan Kuthar
Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru
Mangaluru, Sep 7: The first phase of a trial round for 24-hour water supply to Ullal city has begun, Speaker of the Karnataka Legislative Assembly, U T Khader, announced after reviewing the quality of water being supplied from the Pajiru treatment plant to a 7 million-litre tank at Chembugudde, Ullal. The chief minister is expected to inaugurate the first phase of the project following the successful completion of the trial.
Speaking on the occasion, Khader said, "Providing 24-hour water supply to both rural and urban areas has been a longstanding dream. As promised during the election, water will be supplied to these areas in the coming months. Under a Rs 198 crore project, a water jackwell has been constructed in Sajipa, which lifts water to the modern treatment plant located between Konaje and Pajiru. From there, the water will be distributed through pipelines to both rural and urban areas."
Khader added that a 7 million-litre tank has been constructed at Chembugudde, from where water will be supplied to Ullal through pipelines installed under the ADB project. Although pipelines were laid in 2002, the construction of water tanks in areas like Mastikatte, Azad Nagar, Ombathukere, and Mukkachery could not proceed due to the unavailability of land. To overcome this, a tank is being built at the Kumpala Ashraya Colony site between Someshwara and Ullal.
Khader further elaborated on the various ongoing projects, including additional funding for areas lacking pipelines, the construction of tanks and pipelines in Kotekar and Someshwara with a budget of Rs 134 crore, and the installation of meters in every household to prevent water misuse. He assured that within two years, the entire constituency would receive regular water supply, crediting the success of these projects to the support of his voters.
Meeting with traders and auto drivers on road widening
Khader also mentioned plans to expand the Thokkottu-Chembugudde road to six lanes, with a project costing Rs 25 crore. Prior to the commencement of work, discussions will be held with traders and auto drivers to address any concerns.
Upgrade of power infrastructure
Khader outlined plans to upgrade the existing 30 KV power supply to 132 KV, with substations already operational at Konaje and Kotekar. Power will be supplied underground from Mudipu, addressing the previous issue of frequent overloads from the Kavoor supply line. He also revealed a Rs 200 crore plan to install underground cables and convert Ullal into a smart city in the future.
Healthcare initiatives
The Ullal Community Health Centre, which currently receives 400 outpatients daily, has started admitting inpatients. Additionally, Unani, Ayurveda, and Yoga therapists have been appointed, and dental services have commenced. A free dialysis center will soon be opened, with priority given to residents of the Ullal constituency. Dr Nitin, a local physician, will oversee applications for the dialysis service, which can accommodate 75 patients per week.
Fire station to begin operations soon
A 2-acre site has been identified in Pajiru for the establishment of a fire station, which is expected to become operational within a month to meet local demands.
The event was attended by MUDA chairman Sadashiva Ullal, Ullal city council president Shashikala, vice president Swapna Harish, standing committee chairperson Veena Shanti D'Souza, and several council members, along with officials from Karnataka Urban Water Supply Board.