MLC Ivan D’Souza announced plans to form a committee comprising Congress corporators and experts to probe allegations of “untreated” water being distributed to nearly half of Mangaluru‘s population. The panel will also examine the poor upkeep of sewage treatment plants (STPs), which have reportedly allowed untreated sewage to flow into city rajakaluves and rivers. A comprehensive report will be presented to Chief Minister Siddaramaiah during his visit on January 17.
D’Souza criticized the BJP-led Mangaluru City Corporation (MCC) for neglecting STPs despite allocating ₹1.5 crore annually for their maintenance. Additionally, wet wells are reportedly non-operational, worsening the situation. Lakes like Gujjarakere and Kavoor Kere remain polluted despite investments, he added.
Pointing to a recent report that identified 13 polluted rivers in Karnataka, including the Nethravathi, D’Souza emphasized the need for immediate corrective measures. Opposition demands for a fact-finding team were rejected by the Mayor, who claims only primary treated water is supplied.
Leader of Opposition Anil Kumar highlighted sewage contamination in every city rajakaluve, including one connected to the Maravoor dam. Congress Corporator Shashidhar Hegde accused contractors of failing to meet tender conditions, while Praveenchandra Alva pointed to non-functional pumps and aerators as key issues.
D’Souza urged random water quality tests and a detailed MCC report on STP inefficiencies. Officials estimate ₹300 crore is required to upgrade the STPs and underground drainage systems.
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