Pics: Abhijith N Kolpe

Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru

Mangaluru, May 28: Several areas across Mangaluru continue to pose serious safety risks due to unprotected stormwater drains. Despite numerous drains scattered throughout the city, many remain without railings or barriers, endangering both motorists and pedestrians.

One tragic incident, still fresh in public memory, occurred exactly a year ago on May 25, 2024, when an auto driver lost his life after falling into an open stormwater drain at Kottara. Heavy rains had concealed the drain, causing the driver, Deepak (aged 40), and his vehicle to plunge in. No one was held accountable for the incident, despite the Mangaluru City Corporation (MCC) having left the drain unprotected.

A year later, a railing has finally been installed at the same Kottara drain. However, citizens are raising valid concerns: What about the other stormwater drains in the city? Why do so many still lack safety railings? Are authorities waiting for another fatality before taking action?

In many parts of the city, such as Bangra Kulur, Datta Nagar 3rd Cross, and other residential zones, the issues persist. Some drains are not only unprotected but are also located near curved roads with poor lighting and no pedestrian walkways, creating additional hazards. In Bangra Kulur, a section of the drain collapsed during last year’s rains. Even after a year, no permanent solution has been implemented—only temporary sandbags have been used.

With the MCC council's term having ended in February, there is currently no active governance in place, leaving citizens without a clear authority to turn to. The absence of elected representatives has further delayed urgent safety measures.

The state of stormwater drains in Mangaluru highlights a glaring lapse in urban safety and governance. While the installation of a railing at the Kottara site is a step in the right direction, it also raises pressing questions about accountability and civic responsibility. Authorities must take proactive steps to inspect and secure all hazardous drains across the city before another life is lost. Ensuring the safety of roads and public spaces should not be a reactive measure taken only after tragedy strikes—it must be a consistent priority.