Pics: Abhijith N Kolpe

Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru

Mangaluru, Feb 14: The iconic Clock Tower, intended to be a landmark of the city, has fallen into disrepair due to a lack of maintenance, turning its fountain into a breeding ground for mosquitoes that spread diseases like dengue and malaria.

Constructed at a cost of approximately Rs 10 crore, the Clock Tower has yet to be officially inaugurated. In addition, poor upkeep has left the fountain dysfunctional and neglected. The surrounding area is now littered with waste and has become a resting spot for vagrants.

The fountain at the Clock Tower is filled with stagnant, polluted water, with plastic waste and other debris floating on the surface. The water has become completely contaminated, and the long-defunct fountain stands as a blot on the city's reputation despite the significant investment made in its construction.

For the past three years, the Clock Tower's pipes have been leaking frequently. Although water supply to the fountain was occasionally halted for repairs, the motor has now stopped functioning. Despite this, water continues to be supplied to the fountain, leading to stagnation and creating an ideal environment for mosquito breeding.

Despite the long-standing issue, neither the city corporation nor the Smart City authorities appear to have taken any initiative to maintain the structure.

Responding to the situation, Mangaluru mayor Manoj Kumar Kodikal stated, "I am aware of the neglect in maintaining the Clock Tower. I have visited the site for inspection and have instructed officials to take immediate action to clean the area."