In a significant move to address long-standing civic problems, Mangaluru's Member of Legislative Council (MLC) Ivan D'Souza has declared an urgent need to prioritize the city's critical infrastructure, including its sewer system, roads, and drinking water supply. He announced plans to escalate these matters to the highest levels of the state government to secure necessary funding.
Public Grievance Meeting Highlights Civic Woes
The strong stance was taken during a detailed discussion on various issues plaguing the Mangaluru City Corporation (MCC), held with MCC Commissioner Ravichandra Naik on Friday. The meeting, which saw the participation of around 100 citizens from various wards, served as a platform to voice a range of public grievances. Key concerns raised included chronic sewer mismanagement, erratic drinking water supply, delays in obtaining birth and death certificates, problems with e-accounts, and the poor state of road infrastructure.
A Rs 1,250 Crore Sewer Solution on the Table
During the dialogue, MLC Ivan D'Souza revealed a crucial detail: the corporation has identified a comprehensive proposal requiring Rs 1,250 crore to overhaul the city's sewer system. He issued a stark warning, stating that failure to implement this vital project could lead to severe consequences for the residents of Mangaluru. To prevent this, D'Souza committed to bringing this pressing issue to the attention of the state government during the upcoming legislature session. He emphasized the strategy of urging for phased funding to get the massive project underway.
"If required, I will not hesitate to discuss these funding shortages with the relevant ministers and even Chief Minister Siddaramaiah directly," D'Souza asserted, underlining his determination to find a solution.
Immediate Actions and Official Assurances
Beyond the sewer crisis, the MLC also gave specific instructions regarding the deemed park at Nehru Maidan, directing Commissioner Ravichandra Naik to take immediate action on the matter. In response, the commissioner assured that all engineering and administrative officials would be duly informed, and projects would be executed based on priority following a thorough review.
Echoing this sentiment, Naresh P Shenoy, Deputy Commissioner (Development) of MCC, stated that specific issues highlighted in the meeting would be addressed on a priority basis. The meeting was also attended by former mayors Bhaskar Moily and Shashidhar Hegde, among other prominent figures, highlighting the collective concern for the city's development.
The concerted effort by the MLC and civic officials signals a potential turning point for Mangaluru's infrastructure. The success of this initiative now hinges on securing the substantial financial commitment from the state government, a task MLC D'Souza has personally pledged to undertake.
