Continuous rain in the coastal district of Mangaluru has heightened the threat of sea erosion for residents in Ullal. Several structures along the shorelines of Kotepura, Mogaveerapatna, Sea Ground, Uchila, and Battapady have been destroyed, leaving many families in fear of the rough seas.
Responding to the concerns of the residents, Mangaluru MLA and assembly speaker UT Khader has instructed the port department to implement temporary measures to curb sea erosion and protect shoreline properties. The coastal stretch from Kotepura to Uchila and Battapady is particularly vulnerable to erosion, necessitating prompt action to prevent damage to roads and homes.
Khader, who inspected the affected areas, noted that while the construction of a breakwater under an ADB-funded project a few years ago reduced property damage, no permanent solutions have been implemented since a road was damaged at Battapady four years ago. Temporary measures are currently being taken to safeguard houses in Battapady, but Khader emphasized the need for a permanent solution to address sea erosion comprehensively.
“I have directed officials to submit an estimate to the government for a sustainable coastal management plan,” Khader stated. He also advised property owners to seek official permission before dumping boulders to mitigate sea waves, ensuring their actions do not create future hazards.
The continuous rough sea conditions at New Uchila threaten to disconnect the Uchila-Someshwara road, exacerbating the situation. Khader visited the affected areas with Assistant Commissioner of Mangaluru Harshaverdhana SJ and Tahsildar of Ullal Puttur to assess the damage and plan further actions.