Mangalore: MLA J R Lobo views Damage Caused to Gujjarakere Nature Pond at Jeppu

By Robert DCosta
Pics by John V Tauro
Bellevision Media Network

Mangalore, 22 June, 2013 : MLA J R Lobo visited the Gujjarakere nature pond, in Jeppu, to assess the damage due to shoddy works by contractor here on Friday June 21.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Gujjarakere Samrakshana Vedike alleges that although the state authorities sanctioned Rs 2 crore to Gujjarakere nature pond that lies in nearly 2 acres (it was exactly over three-and-a-half acres, what remained after encroachment) to restore it to former glory.  It was a significant nature pond since ancient times.  However, the contractor has built a barrier along the bank while a large portion of its eastern side collapsed due to incessant rains a few days ago.  Besides, a portion of northern side was collapsed during monsoon in 2012.  The Vedike alleged that not even half of state funds were utilized thereby misappropriating chunk of money.  The effluents indeed are polluting the open wells in the neighbourhood, alleged the Vedike.

 

Gujjarakere was the lifeline for irrigating crops in nearly 50 acres of farmland that are now converted into concrete jungle and remained disused.  It was earlier cared by the locals while the municipal body overtook the upkeep in the recent past.

 

DCC general secretary T K Sudhir, Congress youth leader Nelson Monteiro, Gujjarakere Samrakshana Vedike president Yogish Kumar Jeppu, vice president Ravindra Pilar, chief secretary Nemu Kotian, members Suresh Jeppu, Sunil Kumar and locals were present at the occasion.