Mohan Kuthar
Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru (EP)
Mangaluru, Feb 12: A delegation under the leadership of MLA U T Khader inspected the works at Harekal bridge dam on Friday, February 12.
Speaking to the reporters, MLA Khader said, "Locals should know about the bridge cum barrage that is being constructed. There was criticism before the funds were approved. The opposition had said that the decision will not materialize. But the district suffered injustice with regard to the Yettinahole project. This project is implemented in order to provide justice," he said.
"The contract has been handed over to G Shankar & Co. The cost is estimated to be Rs 200 crore. However, the contractors shouldered the project for a sum of Rs 192.5 crore when the tender was called. There will be provision for pedestrians to walk on the new dam before the monsoons. The work will be completed and inaugurated by end of December," said.
MLA Khader said that the barrage has a 7.5 meter-wide road and a path for pedestrians that is one meter wide. He also said that it is the first mini irrigation project in the state.
"Large vehicles are not permitted on the bridge. The distance for villagers who want to travel to Mangaluru will be reduced by 25 kilometres," he informed. "Around 18.7 million cusecs of water can be stored in the barrage. Water can be supplied from here to the city when it is exhausted in Thumbe. Tourism in Harekal will develop as people will come to see the dam. Boat rides and breeding of fish will also be possible," Khader added.
The MLA asked the college students to observe the work and urged them to study these structures. "There is a Jackwell tank at Sajipamunnur, treatment plant at Kamblapadav, water tank worth Rs 60 lac at Chembugudde etc. A proposal of Rs 280 crore has been submitted to the government for a new pipeline in the village. We are confident that the proposal will be approved. Tanks under the Jal Jeevan mission will be constructed at several places," he said.
Taluk panchayat president, Mohammed Monu, Harekal gram panchayat president, Badruddin, former president, Mahabala Hegde, engineer, Gokuldas and Harekal gram panchayat vice president, Kalyani were present.