Daijiworld Media Network - Puttur

Puttur, June 16: Due to official apathy, rainwater has been flowing freely along the roads in several areas of Puttur. In a symbolic and hands-on gesture, Puttur MLA Ashok Kumar Rai took matters into his own hands near the Kodimbadi Shantinagar School. He brought a hoe from a nearby house and cleared a path to divert stagnant rainwater from the road into a nearby drain.

The artificial flooding has been attributed to officials preparing for the monsoon season while sitting in their offices, without proper field inspections. A few days ago, MLA Rai had held a meeting regarding monsoon preparedness, but it appears the concerned departments did not take adequate follow-up action.

The MLA witnessed the real impact of this negligence firsthand while travelling on the Puttur–Uppinangady road. Seeing water flowing uncontrollably across the road, he personally used the hoe to ensure the water drained off properly.

Public demand gains momentum

Images and videos of the MLA clearing roadside drainage have gone viral on social media, sparking public reaction. Citizens are now demanding the MLA take similar action in other parts of the taluk as well.

Many point out that during the implementation of multi-village water supply schemes, several drains were closed, and in other areas, the authorities have failed to repair or maintain drainage systems. As a result, people are now expressing the view that the MLA himself should undertake repairs across the region.