Pics: Spoorthi Ullal

Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru

Mangaluru, Jan 11: MLC Ivan D’Souza has reiterated allegations by opposition leaders of Mangaluru City Corporation (MCC) about the supply of untreated and unsafe water to some parts of the city, citing laboratory tests confirming the water quality at Bendorewell pumphouse is not fit for drinking.

Speaking at a press conference at his office in the MCC building on Saturday, D’Souza referenced a report from the Fisheries College laboratory, which tested water samples from the Bendorewell Pump House. According to the report, water supplied to areas including Surathkal, Panambur, Kuloor, Kottara, and Kodikal is not potable. The findings raise significant concerns regarding public health and the corporation’s governance.

Opposition members, led by MCC opposition leader Anil Kumar, had earlier demanded a fact-finding committee comprising both ruling and opposition members to investigate the issue. However, the ruling BJP and the mayor rejected the proposal, assuring the public of clean water. In response, the opposition committee visited STPs and pump houses in Pacchanady, Bendorewell, Kadekar, Jeppinamogaru, Chelairu, Madhyakhandevu, and Muchur, compiling evidence of serious mismanagement.

The fact-finding team uncovered the deteriorated condition of MCC's four STPs and 23 wet wells. Inadequate infrastructure, manpower, and maintenance were identified as key issues. It was found that the Surathkal STP, in operation without proper Pollution Control Board clearance since 2015, is neither equipped with adequate generators nor receiving proper sewage input due to faulty wet wells like the Muchur Pump House.

Adding to the concerns, raw sewage from the drainage system is entering lakes and rivers like the Nandini, contributing to pollution. Even the Pacchanady STP is non-operational at night due to a lack of diesel for its generators.

D’Souza criticized MCC’s inefficiency over the last five years and demanded a white paper on the expenses incurred on water supply and sewage management. He announced plans to submit a detailed report to chief minister Siddaramaiah and urban development minister Suresh Bairagi on January 17, seeking urgent remedial action.

Opposition leader Anil Kumar also emphasized the responsibility to provide citizens with clean water and sanitation facilities, stating, “We have documented the failures and will ensure corrective actions. As opposition members, our aim is to safeguard public health and gain the people’s trust in the upcoming MCC elections.”

The press conference was attended by Shashid Hegde, Praveen Chandra Alva, Vinayraj, Keshava Maroli, Ashraf, Kishore Shetty, Satish Pengal, Chetan Kumar, Hemant Garodi, and others.