MANGALURU: Speaker and Mangaluru MLA UT Khader has announced that a protective sea wall will be constructed from Batapady to Someshwara to curb the persistent threat of sea erosion in his constituency. Recommendations for the project were provided by the National Institute of Technology Karnataka (NITK).

Speaking to the media on Saturday, Khader revealed that tenders will soon be floated to initiate erosion control works, particularly targeting vulnerable spots between Kotepura and Someshwara. The state government has earmarked ₹200 crore in its budget specifically for addressing sea erosion concerns along the coast. Officials will convene shortly to finalize the action plan.

The Batapady region, in particular, has been severely affected by erosion, prompting immediate intervention. In addition to the proposed sea wall, offshore reefs installed earlier through an ADB-funded project in Ullal are in place but require annual upkeep. Khader mentioned that ₹5 crore has been allocated this year for maintenance, acknowledging that the Port Department faces financial limitations in this regard.

AI surveillance at Kerala border

On security measures, Khader shared plans to deploy AI-powered surveillance systems in areas bordering Kerala to strengthen safety. He addressed the recent seizure of pistols and ammunition from five criminals linked to ganja smuggling, emphasizing that a proposal is in place to install laser-enabled surveillance cameras along the constituency’s border.

A dedicated command center is also planned to monitor activities in real-time, aiming to deter criminal activities. Law enforcement will receive necessary support to ensure stringent action.

Educational boost

Further, the state budget has approved the establishment of three new institutions in the constituency: a women’s PU college, a residential PU college, and a PU college for minorities.