Mangaluru: Residents and workers in Mangaluru’s Old Port area took to the streets in protest, demanding immediate action from the city corporation over the deteriorating condition of roads and overflowing drainage near the Port Workers’ Bridge. The protest was organized by the DYFI Port Unit and the Port Workers’ Association.
B.K. Imtiaz, DYFI District President and President of the Port Workers’ Association, said that the stretch from Golikate Bazaar to the Port Road is in terrible condition due to overflowing manholes and choked drainage. Wastewater now flows across the road, making daily travel hazardous for pedestrians, especially school children, working women, and laborers in the wholesale market.
He pointed out that multiple people had suffered injuries from accidents involving road potholes, which remain unattended despite repeated complaints. Two-wheeler riders and walkers have suffered fractures due to the corporation’s continued negligence.
Assistant Executive Engineer Naresh Shenoy, who arrived at the protest site, was confronted by angry protesters. Although he assured them that the issue would be resolved, the protestors gave a one-week ultimatum to act, refusing to disperse without a firm commitment.
Warning of Future Action:
B.K. Imtiaz warned that if the drainage and road conditions are not resolved within a week, port workers will organize a handcart rally to the corporation office as a mark of protest. He also voiced fears of a rise in waterborne diseases like filariasis, dengue, and malaria due to untreated sewage entering local rivers.
Several DYFI and association leaders participated in the protest.