Sea erosion intensifies at Muloor-Thottam and Ullal

Team Udayavani, Jun 16, 2023, 9:01 AM IST

Kaup: Sea erosion on the coast at Kaup has intensified as a result of Cyclone Biparjoy, leading to mounting concerns among the local population. In the Mulur Thottam area, in particular, the relentless waves are washing away the huge rocks put in place as a barrier.

The surging sea waves have reached almost the residences of Lata S. Poojary, Ratna Poojary, Leela Poojary, Mahalinga Poojary, Dinesh Poojary, and Nalinakshi Poojary, resulting in the collapse of two coconut trees and substantial portions of the existing barrier into the sea. Alarmed by this development, they fear that more property might be damaged in the near future.

In response, Kapu Revenue Officer Loknath Lamani visited the affected area, assessing the extent of the damage and assuring to report the losses to the district and taluk administration.

The local community has expressed outrage over the increasingly severe sea erosion, citing the annual exacerbation of the problem. Despite promises made by numerous Members of Parliament, Union and State Ministers, MLAs, Opposition leaders, and former Chief Ministers who visited the area last year, a lasting solution remains elusive. While work has commenced in some areas, locals say they are disheartened by the simultaneous erosion occurring around them, undermining the progress made.

Recognizing the urgency of the situation, discussions regarding the sea erosion issue took place during the recent Disha meeting at the Deputy Commissioner’s office, involving the district administration and the Union Minister. MLA Gurme Suresh Shetty revealed that the DC has assured the immediate construction of a temporary barrier, utilizing the grant from the Disaster Relief Fund wherever necessary.

Someshwar: 3 houses washed away

In Someshwar of Dakshina Kannada, the village of Uchila Battappadi has borne the brunt of massive waves crashing upon its shores. The recent cyclone has exacerbated the damage to three houses, whereas 3 houses have already been washed away by the waves. Efforts to erect a temporary barrier are underway, with stones being laid to mitigate the impact. Similarly, in Ullal Seaground, numerous houses are in peril.