Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru
Mangaluru, Sep 30: A delegation from the Catholic Sabha Mangaluru Pradesh (Regd.) led by central president Alwyn D'Souza submitted a memorandum to Karnataka Assembly Speaker U T Khader and deputy commissioner of Dakshina Kannada regarding illegal sand mining in Uliya, Ranipeura, Ullal Hoige, Malavoor, Kenjar, and surrounding areas. The memorandum was submitted at 10 am on Monday ,September 30.
The delegation raised concerns about illegal sand mining near the dam in Uliya, warning that it could lead to its collapse, which would affect nearby temples and residential areas. MLC Ivan D’Souza, who accompanied the delegation, had visited Uliya on September 28 and inspected the situation. He detailed the issue to the deputy commissioner and other officials.
U T Khader promised a comprehensive survey of the affected areas and assured the construction of a hanging bridge in the region. He also pledged immediate action to prohibit illegal sand mining activities.
The Deputy Commissioner assured the delegation that after the upcoming Legislative Council elections, he would personally inspect the area and work with the police to stop illegal mining. The steps proposed include fencing the area to prevent access to tipper trucks and Hitachi vehicles, seizing unauthorized boats, and dismantling illegal sheds used for sand mining.
The delegation will visit Bengaluru on October 3 to meet Chief Minister, Deputy Chief Minister, opposition leaders, and MP Brijesh Chowta, along with the district MLAs and Minister of Mines and Geology S S Mallikarjun, to press for further action.
Those present at the meeting included former Catholic Sabha president Paul Rolfy D’Costa, South Zone president Dolphy D'Souza, Bantwal Zone president John Lasrado, Pezar Zone president Santosh D’Souza, Kasargod Zone president Francis Monteiro, Stanley Bantwal, and Austin Lobo, secretary of the Bantwal Zone. Local residents from the affected areas also participated.