Mangaluru: Island residents use boats to reach polling stations

Team Udayavani, Apr 26, 2024, 5:57 PM IST

The lack of a connecting bridge did not deter the residents of islands in Pavoor Uliya in Mangalore Assembly Constituency, as they used boats to reach the mainland to exercise their votes for the Lok Sabha Elections on Friday, April 26.

For years, the people of Pavoor Uliya island have been compelled to commute to the city via boat due to the absence of a bridge. Despite this longstanding challenge, they journeyed across the river today to fulfil their democratic right.

The absence of a connecting bridge over the Netravati River has been a persistent issue for the residents of Pavoor Uliya island. Despite the numerous appeals made to the elected representatives, the demand for a bridge has yet to be addressed, they said.

The island is home to over 50 families, comprising more than 150 voters. Regardless of age or gender, residents, including elders, women, and youth, arrived by boat to participate in the electoral process. Residents expressed optimism that their long-standing request for a suspension bridge may finally be fulfilled.