Udupi: In a significant move to address the recurring issue of coastal erosion, Revenue Minister Krishna Byre Gowda announced that a scientific study will be conducted by an expert panel, as directed by the Chief Minister. Based on its findings, a ₹300 crore project will be implemented across Karnataka’s coastline.
The minister, while reviewing administrative progress in Udupi district on Wednesday, visited erosion-hit areas at Thottam in Mooluru village, Kapu taluk. Speaking to reporters, he acknowledged that coastal erosion has plagued the region for over two decades, particularly during the monsoon season.
He mentioned that IIT Madras has already submitted a preliminary report estimating ₹15 crore per 100 meters of coastline for protection efforts. However, the proposal requires further analysis for feasibility and optimization.
As part of the CM’s directive, each of the three coastal districts—Udupi, Dakshina Kannada, and Uttara Kannada—has been asked to submit proposals worth ₹100 crore to tackle the erosion crisis.
Additionally, the minister revealed that deputy commissioners in six coastal and Malnad districts have been instructed to prepare a ₹500 crore plan to address landslide-prone areas, emphasizing permanent solutions such as constructing retaining walls.
Udupi district has been told to submit separate proposals—₹100 crore for erosion control and ₹50 crore for landslide mitigation—on priority.
Deputy Commissioner Swaroopa T.K., Assistant Commissioner Rashmi, Kapu Tahsildar Pratibha, and Congress leaders Vinay Kumar Sorake, Ashok Kumar Kodavoor, and M.A. Gafoor accompanied the minister during the visit.