Silvester D'Souza

Daijiworld Media Network – Kundapur (EP)

Kundapurl, Sep 25: Gundmi villagers here protested on Monday September 24 against neglect of Saligrama town panchayat regarding dumping of trash at Halekote grounds, the land that is revered in memory of Kota Shivaram Karanth.

The panchayat had gone ahead for temporary disposal of trash at Halekote, Sastan two and a half years ago.

A meeting of local people was called for the purpose. People had consented to it as it was a temporary arrangement, but protesters are angry that trash is being dumped there even now.

A drinking water well built at a cost of Rs 16 lac is close to the place where the trash is being dumped. Water in the well is contaminated due to trash and supply of water is suspended. There is also a gas godown nearby. “The village is likely to be destroyed in the event of accidental fire to the pile of trash,” said the protesters in anguish.

“Local school children walk by the side of the trash. Street dog menace has increased. Therefore, children are scared to walk here. There are people infected with Malaria and Dengue. Therefore, the town panchayat should take action immediately,” urged the protesters.