In a contentious meeting at the Town Municipal Council (TMC) hall, Bhatkal’s Municipal Councillors sharply criticized Assistant Executive Engineer (AEE) Sadanand Bandekar and other engineers for their mismanagement of the Underground Drainage (UGD) system. The session, chaired by Assistant Commissioner Dr. Naina, addressed severe issues including the contamination of over 500 drinking water wells and pollution of the Sarabi River, which have created health hazards and unpleasant conditions in Ghausia Street and surrounding areas.
Councillors accused the engineers of ignoring previous directives and failing to act on concerns raised by Uttara Kannada District In-Charge Minister Mankal Vaidya in a prior meeting. They threatened strikes from NGOs if the issues remain unresolved. Heated debates focused on the discharge of sewage into the Sarabi River and poor conditions at the Ghausia Street pumping station.
Dr. Naina instructed Bandekar to submit a maintenance report within seven days and directed Municipal Assistant Engineer Arvind to report on the Ghausia Street pumping station’s condition. AEE Ajay Prabhu was ordered to inspect 75% of the town’s manholes and submit a report within 15 days. Additionally, Dr. Naina mandated that AEE Ajay Prabhu be present in Bhatkal for two days each week and remain at the TMC office during office hours.
Councillor Fayyaz Mulla condemned Bandekar for infrequent visits and threatened a strike if improvements were not made. Standing Committee Chairman Qaiser Mohtisham and Councillor Altaf Kharuri echoed concerns about sub-standard work and the risk of escalating complaints. Former TMC President Parvez Qasimji highlighted the detrimental impact on the town’s development and trust with NGOs.
The meeting underscored the urgent need for action and accountability in addressing the UGD system’s shortcomings.
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