Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru (SP)

Mangaluru, Dec 10: Mangalore Refinery and Petrochemicals Ltd (MRPL) has been installing a plant that can convert seawater into fresh water. A huge pipeline is expected to be laid from the plant to the sea.

A peaceful protest was organized by Dakshina Kannada Coast Original Fishermen's Association in front of the plant on Monday December 9. The protesters claimed that this pipe will pose problems for the fishermen. They pointed out that the works are being executed clandestinely without giving prior information to the fishermen.

On Monday, hundreds of fishermen gathered at the plant at Tannirbavi, by abstaining from their fishing work. Ashwath Kanchan, addressing the protesters, charged the company of keeping the local fishermen in the dark when executing this work. He said that these pipelines not only drive fishes away but also fishnet of the fishermen get damaged because of thme.

Honorary president of the association Subhash Boloor, speaking on the occasion, said that the association had sought details about the plant from the company. He said that a warning of holding protest was given to the company in case it fails to provide details. He said that the protest was held peacefully as the company had overlooked the warning and was found shirking from providing information sought for.

Representatives of the company to which contract for the work has been given, explained to the protesters that the seawater would be processed and contaminated water would be released back. They promised to provide detailed pros and cons relating to the project soon.

Vice president Narendra Shriyan, secretary Keshava Mendon, treasurer Taranath Karkera, organizing secretary Chandrashekhar Shriyan and several other leaders were present.