Daijiworld Media Network – Udupi (TP/JD)
Udupi, Mar 14: MLA Sunil Kumar strongly urged the state government to not only announce a special package for the development of the three coastal districts but also to implement various measures in the Karnataka Legislative Assembly on March 13.
MLAs called on the government to show the political will to transform the coastal region into the ‘Vikasalakshmi’ of Karnataka.
Sunil Kumar emphasized that the coastal region has faced significant neglect, with successive governments allocating fewer funds compared to other districts, resulting in stalled development. Given this situation, he demanded the immediate release of a Rs 1,000 crore package and the formulation of a special project titled "Suvarna Karavali."
He pointed out that during the Belagavi session, discussions revolve around North Karnataka, while in Bengaluru, the focus remains on Greater Bengaluru. However, the coastal region rarely gets attention. He highlighted the region’s potential for development through temples, ports, beaches, and eco-tourism. Stressing the need for special priority to port development along the 330 km coastline, he also called for dedicated funding for the Paschimavahini project, which was announced as an alternative after the Yettinahole project was scrapped.
Sunil Kumar urged the government to resolve the 9 and 11E land classification issue, which has hindered construction in the region. He noted that 10,000 people have been unable to build their homes in the past two years due to uniform design plan constraints. He also urged the state government to conduct a population survey and submit a report to the central government.
Additionally, he demanded a Rs 5 lakh grant for Kambala, the establishment of the Bantara Development Corporation, and the immediate appointment of a chairman for the Narayana Guru Development Corporation, along with fund allocation.
Development of fisheries and education
MLA Yashpal Suvarna stated that fisheries play a crucial role in the economy of coastal Karnataka and called for increased grants and the development of the fisheries sector.
"A master plan must be created to prevent soil erosion along the coast," he said.
He also highlighted Udupi’s reputation as a literary district and home to several private educational institutions. He urged the government to establish a government medical and agricultural college in Udupi district and set up an IT Park for the coastal region.
Concerns over traditional sand mining and coastal erosion
Kaup MLA Gurme Suresh Shetty raised concerns about restrictions on traditional sand mining.
"Hundreds of workers depend on traditional sand mining, but there have been attempts to stop it. Coastal erosion has become an annual issue, and it feels like a 'beggar’s dream'—we hope for development, but the situation remains unchanged," he said.
He criticized the government for failing to allocate the Rs 250 crore it had promised for coastal erosion control in recent budgets.
"Saltwater intrusion is damaging our farmlands, and a preventive project is urgently needed," he added.
Issues faced by tile factories and revenue shortages
Gururaj Gantihole, MLA of Byndoor, spoke about the hardships faced by tile factories in the district.
"We have been given a non-corrupt superintendent of police, but he never listens to our problems. Sand and stone are categorized as mining in our area, but they are a daily necessity, not large-scale mining operations. Tile factories that provide employment to thousands are on the verge of shutting down because clay soil, their primary raw material, has been categorized as a mining resource," he said.
He also highlighted the staff shortage in major revenue departments and a lack of funds, which have severely affected development activities.
"Sea erosion is a recurring issue, yet it remains unresolved. Government school buildings are in a dilapidated state and need urgent repairs," he added.
Concerns over red stone mining restrictions
Kiran Kodgi, MLA of Kundapur, spoke about issues related to red stone mining.
"Earlier, red stone mining was permitted under 3A permits, but today, Udupi district faces restrictions, while no such issues have been raised in Dakshina Kannada," he said.
The MLAs collectively urged the government to address these pressing issues and take immediate steps to boost coastal Karnataka’s development.