Mangaluru’s beach lovers are urging a scientific assessment of breakwater construction, which they say has significantly reduced beach width. Beach promoter Yathish Baikampady pointed out that the poorly designed breakwaters at Panambur, Tannirbavi, and Sasihitlu have caused severe erosion, making water sports and beach activities impossible.
Baikampady highlighted how breakwaters at Kulai and other locations have worsened the erosion problem. He criticized officials for wasting taxpayer money and misleading the public, claiming the structures are ineffective and collapsing. The impact on tourism has been severe, with Panambur Beach now unsuitable for events like international kite festivals due to shrinking sands and uneven surfaces.
Fishermen from Kulai echoed the concerns, stating that sea erosion caused by the breakwaters is hindering their fishing activities.
Marine geology expert Prof. KS Jayappa from Mangalore University explained that breakwaters block sediment movement, leading to wider beaches in some areas. He stressed the need for balance, suggesting that while breakwaters are necessary, seawalls should be avoided as they often exacerbate erosion by reducing sediment flow.
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