Mounesh Vishwakarma

Daijiworld Media Network - Bantwal

Bantwal, Feb 17: In a swift intervention, MLA Rajesh Naik addressed the waterlogging crisis affecting local farmers at the dam in Jakribettu.

The issue stemmed from the installation of gates for water storage, which resulted in floodwaters spilling over into agricultural land. Naik, along with district officials, stepped in to open the gates, providing immediate relief to the affected farmers.

The Jakribettu dam had installed 21 gates, storing around 5 meters of water. As the Netravati river swelled, areas like Manihalla and Panekala, situated in low-lying regions, witnessed waterlogging inundating valuable areca nut plantations, with water levels rising up to 1.5 feet. Fearing the loss of crops, farmers raised concerns that prolonged waterlogging could destroy the trees.

The MLA took up the issue during the KDP meeting in Mangaluru, chaired by minister Dinesh Gundurao. Post-meeting, Naik visited the dam site, where he was met by distressed farmers who urged him to act swiftly.

After discussions with officials, the MLA ordered the opening of seven gates, reducing the water level from 5 meters to 4 meters. This move allowed the water to drain from the areca nut plantations and return to the river. Farmers confirmed that the waterlogging had subsided and the river had reclaimed its course.

Farmers expressed relief and gratitude, praising Naik for his timely action. The MLA reassured them of his continued support, promising that their concerns would be handled effectively.

Among those present were ward member A Govinda Prabhu, BJP leaders Jagadish Chendtimar, Sudarshan Bajja, Karthik Ballal, executive engineer Syed Athikode, AEE Sajuddin, AEE-2 Rakesh, and AEE Shivaprasanna.