Daijiworld Media Network – Udupi (JD/MS/EP)
Udupi, Jul 11: “Permanent retaining wall is required to prevent sea erosion in coastal region. However, due to CRZ and other issues, the same is getting delayed,” said Shobha Karandlaje, union minister for agriculture and farmer welfare.
Shobha visited Thottam area of Muloor and took stock of the situation. She further said, “The amount of rain was less in the beginning of monsoon this year in the coastal districts. However, for the past 10 days, rains more than usual for this period are lashing the twin districts. Due to this huge amount of damage and destruction has taken place.
“Seven houses have collapsed and 30 houses are partially damaged. Every year, sea is eroding land area. In some areas where the protection wall is built, the sea has crossed it. Due to CRZ issue, some works are pending.
“In the district of Udupi, damage worth Rs 30 crore is reported. I have already spoken to the chief minister and revenue minister to release the grants. They have promised to release the same in phases. It is not possible to assess the extent of damage of agricultural crops now. Only after the water level recedes a survey will be done. I have instructed to grant relief honestly and as soon as possible,” she said.
Answering the accusation of constructing strong retaining wall near private resorts and not near the houses of common people, Shobha said, “Our intention is not to put anyone into inconvenience. Huge amount is required to construct retaining wall to such a huge sea shore. The district administration will take strict action if anyone misuses any system. Our priority is to save lives of everyone.”
Shobha also visited Giliyaru village of Udupi district which is affected by flood. Deputy commissioner M Kurma Rao and other officials were present.
A meeting was held later at the deputy commissioner’s court hall on the havoc caused by recent heavy rains that battered the district was presided over by Shobha Karandlaje. MLA K Raghupati Bhat took part in the meeting.
The heavy rain that pounded the district damaged several houses and destroyed the crop. The meeting was held to provide compensation for the natural calamities.
Discussions over destruction of crops and the compensation were discussed. Providing basic facilities, removal of silt from storm water drains and prevention of sea erosion was also discussed in the meeting.
Deputy commissioner Kurma Rao M, district panchayat chief executive Prasanna H, district SP N Vishnuvardhan, additional deputy commissioner Veena, agricultural joint director Kempegowda and district and taluk level officers were present.