Mangaluru, June 28, 2024: During a phone-in programme on Friday, City Mayor Sudhir Shetty Kannur faced tough questions from a concerned citizen about the collapse of the retaining wall constructed as part of the Netravathi River Front Project by Mangaluru Smart City Ltd (MSCL).
Caller Jayaprakash alleged violations of CRZ rules and misuse of taxpayers’ money, raising suspicions of corruption. He questioned why the project could not be stalled.
Mayor Kannur responded that the Netravathi River Front Project was crucial for Mangaluru’s inclusion in the Smart City Project. The works, based on the DPR for developing a 2.1 km road from Ullal Netravathi bridge to Bolar, were significant for the city’s infrastructure. He assured that the issue of the collapsed retaining wall was raised in the Smart City Board meeting. An NGT team has already visited the site and halted the work. The contractor will rebuild the wall, and payment will be withheld until the issue is resolved.
When questioned about MCC’s supervision of the project’s quality, Mayor Kannur clarified that it was the responsibility of MSCL.
During the programme, citizens also raised various civic issues. The Mayor assured that officials have been instructed to clear footpaths of street vendors to ensure pedestrian convenience.
