Daijiworld Media Network – New Delhi

New Delhi, Mar 14: MP Brijesh Chowta has urged the authorities to take appropriate measures by seriously considering the problem of coastal erosion affecting several parts of the Dakshina Kannada (DK) district coastline, including Ullal and Someshwar.

Raising the issue in Parliament under Rule 377, the MP stated that out of the 36.66 km coastline of the district, nearly 17.74 km — around 48.40 percent — is affected by erosion. This is significantly higher than the Karnataka average of about 24 percent and also higher than the national average of 33.6 percent. As a result, only about 21.9 percent of the district’s coastline is currently considered safe, which is much lower compared to neighbouring districts, he expressed concern.

He further stated that the coastline is gradually being eroded due to the continuous impact of strong monsoon waves, changing climatic conditions, and certain unscientific constructions along the coast, resulting in land areas being swallowed by the sea. This has caused extensive damage to houses, roads, and public properties along the coastal belt. He pointed out that the issue is not merely a geographical concern but a major threat to the livelihood of the fishing community that depends entirely on the sea.

He added that the coastline faces severe erosion every year, making it necessary to take urgent precautionary measures before the onset of the monsoon. In this regard, he urged that a special coastal protection plan for the district be formulated through coordination between the union ministry of environment, forest and climate change and the ministry of earth sciences.

He also demanded that the funds earmarked for coastal protection be released immediately so that a permanent solution to coastal erosion can be implemented and the livelihoods of fishermen can be safeguarded.