Kundapur: Persistent Sea Erosion Threatens Lives of Kodi Residents

Silvester D'Souza
Daijiworld Media Network - Kundapur

Kundapur, Aug 9: Come rains, and it is time once again for the residents of Kodi here to spend sleepness nights, worrying over the persistent problem of sea and soil erosion on its shore.

Kodi, meaning 'shore' in Kannada, is a beautiful beachside village, around 5 km from Kundapur town. Every year during the rainy season, the residents along the coastline of Kodi have to live in fear of their houses being washed away by the sea. The violent sea together with the incessant rains have constantly threatened the lives of those who live near the sea.

The problem is, however, not new to the residents of Kodi. For the past 25 years, sea erosion has been a part and parcel of their lives. Over the years, the shoreline has receded, with the sea swallowing up a portion of the land at some points.

The sea erosion now is at a critical stage, drawing near to the road. Close by are the government hospital, Kaveri bus stand and a school, all of which are facing danger. However, no measures have been taken to alleviate the problem.

Speaking to Daijiworld, Kundapur town municipality member Sanjeev R Poojary said that the menace of sea erosion has existed for the last 25 years. "The people of Kodi are living in fear. They are spending sleepless nights," he said.

Several political leaders have visited the spot and given assurances, but no measures have been taken to control the erosion.

"Two months ago, in the month of June, MP Jayaprakash Hegde and home minister R Ashok had visited Kodi and assured the people that appropriate measures would be taken. However, nothing has been done and there has been response from state the government," said Sanjeev Poojary.