Mohan Kuthar
Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru(DV)

Mangaluru, May 16: The ongoing work on the Adyar-Harekala vented dam-cum bridge was affected as the Netravati river swelled with heavy flow of water, owing to incessant rainfall caused by cyclone Tauktae.

It is learnt that several materials including mud used for the construction work were washed away into the river.

It may be recalled that according to MLA U T Khader, the estimated cost of the project is Rs 200 crore. The contract has been handed over to G Shankar & Co. However, the contractors shouldered the project for a sum of Rs 192.5 crore when the tender was called.The work is likely to be completed and inaugurated by end of December.

The project would provide water to 24 villages of Mangaluru and Bantwal taluks, including Someshwara, Konaje, Belma, Amblamogaru, Harekala, Munnur, Kinya, Talapady, Sajipa Mooda,Naringana, Pajir, Ira, Karnad, Balepuni, Chelur, Boliyar, Pavur, Manjanadi, Sajipa Munnur and Manchi.

Speaking to daijiworld, Harekala gram panchayat member Badruddin said, "As heavy rain lashed for more than 24 four hours due to cyclone effect, water flow in Netravati river increased. As a result, the ongoing work on Adyar-Harekala dam has been affected.

"Nearly 70 laboures who were involved in the work have been shifted to a safe place. Due to the heavy flow of water, construction materials were also washed away. There are three excavators in the middle of the river, but it is very difficult to shift them due to the increase in water level," he said.

Incessant rains have caused widespread devastation in the coast districts of Dakshina Kannada and Udupi over the last couple of days. Several people living along the coastline have been evacuated to safer places.