Mohan Kuthar

Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru

Ullal, Jul 22: The Ullal city council has taken emergency relief measures in most wards under its jurisdiction, which have been severely affected by recent natural disasters. Further relief and development initiatives are being implemented in phases, said Ullal city municipal council president Shashikala during a press conference held at the Council office following discussions in the general meeting on July 19.

She stated that works related to drinking water are underway, with pipelines installed in all wards. However, complaints of muddy water in certain areas have been received and efforts are ongoing to resolve these issues. Shashikala acknowledged that the damages experienced in Ullal this year due to monsoon rains were unprecedented, and expressed gratitude to those who cooperated during this crisis. She added that pothole-filling and road patching works are being carried out swiftly.

Deputy president Swapna Harish said a total of Rs 55 crore has been sanctioned under the Nagarothana scheme, minority development projects, and MLA grants. Of this, Rs 25 crore worth of work has been completed, while 40% of the work is still pending. Special attention is being given to roads and drainage in all 31 wards. She stated that public cooperation is essential to speed up development works.

Municipal Commissioner Naveen Hegde remarked that rainfall equivalent to one year's worth in Cherrapunji fell in just two months in the coastal belt, resulting in water entering houses in low-lying areas of Ullal and causing damages worth lacs of rupees. The government has disbursed compensation ranging from Rs 5,000 to Rs 1 lac. During the flood, rescue operations were conducted using boats by the local administration and rescue teams, and affected residents were moved to the Babukatte Care Centre and other safe locations. Some chose to move to their relatives’ homes instead.

Between June 21 and 30, meals were provided to nearly 1,000 families, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and drinking water was supplied for three days. The Speaker kept constant communication and issued directions during the situation.

There were complaints that water overflowed from the stormwater drains. Upon inspection, it was found that water was flowing smoothly through the drains, and the issue might have been due to sea tide fluctuations. Houses with compound walls built close to roads were submerged. Although the stormwater drain is supposed to be 20 feet wide, it has narrowed to 10 feet in many places. A digital survey has been ordered and will be conducted as soon as the rains subside.

Encroachments must be removed voluntarily, and the city council will not undertake this clearing initially. Just as there are fundamental rights, there are also fundamental duties. Only collective efforts will ensure safety during future rains. While issuing building licenses, a 3-feet setback from the compound wall must be maintained. All works are being carried out in the public interest. Due to collective efforts, no loss of life occurred during the disaster.

To handle waste scientifically, an MRF (Material Recovery Facility) unit has been established at Ombathukere. Mobility staff have been appointed to ensure household-level waste disposal. Pipe composting is being promoted intensively. Citizens are requested to report any issues to the city council's toll-free number.

There were complaints about street-side shops under the Thokkottu flyover obstructing pedestrian movement. In response, a no-objection letter will be obtained from the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) to carry out development works in the area.

The press meet was attended by Ayub Manchila, standing committee president Ibrahim Ashraf, and council members U A Ismail and Basil D’Souza.