Mangaluru:
Fishermen, residents, and environmental activists have raised concerns regarding the proposed development of a waterway service connecting Hoige Bazar and Kuloor on the Gurupura River. The project, estimated at ₹29 crore, aims to establish a roll-on/roll-off (Ro-Ro) vessel service to facilitate both passenger and cargo transport. The initiative is being spearheaded by the Karnataka Inland Waterways Authority.
During an environmental public hearing, Prasanna Kumar, Executive Engineer of the Ports and Fisheries Department, outlined the project’s components, including the construction of concrete jetties at Kuloor and Hoige Bazar, dredging of the riverbed to a depth of three meters, and the establishment of terminal buildings and floating jetties. The service is projected to handle 400 metric tons of cargo and 200 passengers daily, operating two vessels with 12 daily trips.
Deputy Commissioner H.V. Darshan, who chaired the meeting, emphasized that the project would reduce fuel consumption, provide an alternative route during natural disasters, and alleviate urban congestion.
However, local fishermen and residents expressed apprehensions about the project’s impact on their livelihoods and daily activities. Chetan Bengre, President of the Trawl Boat Owners’ Association, stressed the need to ensure that the waterway does not interfere with the ongoing development of the Mangaluru Fisheries Port. Ibrahmin Bengre, the association’s vice-president, called for the implementation of breakwater mechanisms to prevent sand accumulation along the waterway route.
Activist B.K. Imtiyaz criticized the project as a misallocation of public funds, suggesting that the movement of Ro-Ro vessels would adversely affect traditional fishing practices. Residents of Bengre Island, such as former councillor Abdul Lateef and Kasba Bengre Jamat president Bilal Mohiuddin, expressed concerns about increased commuting challenges due to the project’s developments.
Abdul Tayub, a traditional fisherman, lamented the lack of consultation with local communities, stating that the project’s implementation could jeopardize their livelihoods.
The public hearing, held at the South Wharf of the Old Mangaluru Port, underscored the need for a balanced approach that considers both developmental goals and the welfare of local communities.
Conclusion
While the proposed waterway service aims to enhance transportation efficiency and economic development, it is crucial to address the concerns of local fishermen and residents to ensure sustainable and inclusive growth.