Mangalore, Aug 16, 2014: Sahyadri Samrakshana Sanchaya staged a protest at Gandhi Park, here on Friday August 15, to oppose the proposed Netravati River diversion project.
A kid launched the protest by garlanding the statue of Mahatma Gandhi, here on Friday.
The protesters including students of Swaroopa School and members of 23 organizations held a march from Car Street to Gandhi Park located near Town Hall, here.
Addressing the protesters, Sahyadri Samrakshana Sanchaya convener Dinesh Holla said, ‘The Netravati River diversion project would jeopardize the livelihood of coastal residents who were dependent on lifeline for irrigation and drinking water purposes. It has serious implications on coastal environment,’ said Holla.
Holla further said, ‘The elected representatives seem unconcerned over the issue that threaten the uncertainty of coastal residents. Today, being the Independence Day, a few enlightened people are concerned about the future of coastal district before it’s too late,’ said Holla.
The protesters forwarded their memorandum to elected representatives including CM Siddaramaiah, in order to abandon the proposed project.