Deekshith D V
Pics: Meryick D’Silva
Daijiworld Media Network - Mangalore
Mangalore, May 21: Panambur beach is a popular destination for those seeking some relaxation and recreation. But the road leading to the beach from the National Highway is in pathetic condition. Visitors should hold their breath to keep from inhaling the polluted air on the beach road.
The beach road is also used by several trucks carrying coal, urea, and lime stone powder from NMPT producing dust, and spilling it all over the road carrying out direct and indirect environment pollution.
Though there are norms to be followed while transporting the coal, these are not adhered to and often coal is loaded well above the normal height of carriage permitted.
Asha Ramesh, who used to visit the beach frequently, said, “During weekends, I come along with my husband and children. We enjoy here but the road leading to the beach is really horrible and very dusty. We really don’t feel like coming to the beach because of the road.”
Prashanth, who came along with friends after walking from the highway till the beach, complained that his eyes began itching due to the dust.
Santhosh, former corporator, said, “People cannot walk on this road. Several bike riders have slipped and got injured because of spilled urea from the trucks. NMPT is not taking any initiative to prevent this dust.”
An auto rickshaw driver, who wished to remain anonymous, complained that he has to clean his vehicle every time he comes here as the auto would rust due to chemicals spilled on the road.
Though the NMPT authorities sprinkle water on the road to help the dust settle, it is of no use. Due to the scorching heat, the water dries up very soon. The sprinkled water does not flow into the drains as they are filled with waste. Though there have been several media reports about this, the pathetic condition remains unchanged.
Despite thousands of visitors rushing to Panambur beach to spend their leisure time, the road remains unchanged over the years. The coal heap reaches above the wall and leads to suspension of coal particles due to winds.
When Daijiworld contacted NMPT authorities, they said that due to water shortage they could not sprinkle sufficient water.