News & Pics: Hemanath Padubidri
Daijiworld Media Network—Udupi (RD/CN)

Udupi, Sep 25: Pollutants from the recycling (water treatment) plant of Manipal University on Thursday September 23, gushed into nearly 100 households and farms damaging crops and contaminating open
wells which were the only source of drinking water for these families.

Water containing pollutants was accidentally released from the recycling plant on Thursday night as torrential rains followed after the four gate valves were opened which choked the lower discharge point,
resulting in flooding. The affected households come under Badagubettu gram panchayat.

Following a complaint by the residents, Tahsildar Prasanna visited the location. Meanwhile, Manipal University has consented to pay compensation to those affected.

The recycling plant was commissioned two months ago amid opposition from local residents who had urged the district administration to relocate the plant elsewhere.