Speaker UT Khader of the legislative assembly issued a stern warning to officials following the tragic loss of three lives due to electrocution in recent rain-related incidents in Mangaluru district. Addressing officials from Mescom, public works, and forest departments at the Mescom corporate office, Khader emphasized the need for proactive measures during the monsoon season.
Khader expressed dissatisfaction with the lack of coordination among government departments in mitigating the effects of the monsoon despite technological advancements in communication. He directed officials to establish a dedicated helpline for reporting concerns such as vulnerable electricity poles and trees, stressing the importance of prompt action, even at the village level.
Regarding recent incidents near Rozario Church, a Mescom official highlighted efforts under the model subdivision project to place all HT and LT lines underground, with streetlight improvements planned under the ADB project by the MCC. Forest department official DCF Anthony S Mariyappa detailed preparations, including the removal of 476 hazardous trees in Dakshina Kannada, cautioning that even seemingly safe trees had fallen in some areas.
Khader urged officials to focus on developing Ullal, Moodbidri, and Mulki, considering future population growth over the next 30 years. He assured support in overcoming hurdles and emphasized the importance of proactive development planning.
DC Mullai Muhilan MP addressed staffing issues, urging Mescom MD Padmavathi not to approve transfers due to a 50% staff shortage and an additional 80 linemen on a waiting list. Discussions also covered ongoing projects and proposals, including land acquisition for a 110KV station at Kaikara in Puttur and the installation of 1,600 streetlight trippers within MCC limits.
Khader and DC Muhilan stressed the importance of public awareness, prompting Mescom officials to create and distribute concise awareness videos across the region.
