Udupi: The Karnataka Rakshana Vedike (Karave) held a massive protest march on Tuesday, urging authorities to relax restrictions on the extraction and transportation of red stone and sand in Udupi district.
Protest march and petition
The march began at Tiger Circle, Manipal, and culminated at the District Collector’s Office, where leaders submitted a memorandum. They alleged that police have been intercepting trucks carrying red stone and sand, filing unnecessary cases, and creating difficulties for workers, drivers, and business owners dependent on the trade.
Impact on construction and livelihoods
Karave leaders said the ban has affected common people who are unable to source essential materials for building homes. They urged the district administration to resolve the issue promptly.
Warning of further agitation
The petition warned that if restrictions are not lifted, Karave’s Udupi district unit would stage a day-and-night sit-in protest near the Collector’s office.