Harshini Brahmavar

Daijiworld Media Network – Udupi (EP)

Udupi, Oct 23: Ten protesters in the leadership of former MP Jayaprakash Hegde spoke to deputy commissioner Priyanka Mary Francis regarding sand mining issues in the district.

The protesters in the emergency meeting with the deputy commissioner rejected the response of the deputy commissioner. They said that if there is a ban on sand mining in CRZ limits, Kundapur they should be allowed sand mining in non CRZ limits. They urged that sand mining without restrictions should be allowed in Byndoor, Brahmavar, Kaup and Karkal both in CRZ and non CRZ limits within next ten days.

DC Priyanka said that a decision cannot be taken at her level. “The work that can only be done by the government cannot be done by district administration. The chief minister has only given oral orders and not in writing. Therefore, the matter will be brought to the notice of chief minister again and his response will be informed by this evening,” assured the deputy commissioner to the protesters.

“Sand mining is getting delayed due to certain policies of the state government. The district administration is doing its best to resume sand mining. Seven decks for the purpose are already identified and sand mining will start in 61 decks in a few days,” said the deputy commissioner pacifying the protesters.

Jayaprkash Hedge speaking to daijiworld said that coastal management plan committee is formed in non CRZ limits. “Kundapur and Byndoor are marked as eco vulnerable zone in it. Seventeen thousand tonnes sand may be available in Udupi and Brahmavar. But everybody will not get sand from it. There are 171 old permit holders. 61 decks are approved this time. CRZ may cause friction between deck owners. Five acres non CRZ area that was in the past is reduced to one acre. The DC will be sending the information to the chief minister.”

“The members demand that permissions should be granted both to non CRZ and CRZ areas at the same time. The permission is already granted from Kundapur so that election code of conduct may not be a deterrent. I have spoken to Ramanath Shetty, the chief secretary of the office of chief minister. There is a possibility of getting approval for CRZ limits in two days. I will call a press conference to clarify if ordinary people have confusion,” he said.

Ten members who did not agree to it, urged the deputy commissioner to again inform her decision. J P Hegde did not take part in the meeting held for the second time.

The DC contacted the chief secretary on the spot and discussed about the permission. The secretary reportedly said that it is difficult to arrive at a decision right away and asked for a time limit of 30 days. The protesters, who were dissatisfied with the outcome, decided for indefinite protests in front of the office of district administration till the deputy commissioner arrives at a suitable decision. Soon after, the protest was called off.