Daijiworld Media Network – Udupi (SP)

Udupi, Feb 14: “I am deeply concerned about the environment pollution created by Udupi Power Corporation Ltd’s (UPCL) thermal power plant. I have read in news papers that the children are forced to cover their faces while going to their schools, and that fly ash has been contaminating the environment. These have disturbed me very much,” said Sri Vishweshateertha Swamiji of Pejavar Mutt.

In a statement, he said that the industrialists had in the past, assured that modern technology would be used to ensure that the environment does not get polluted. “Because of lure of money, the industrialists appear to have not applied modern techniques to arrest environmental pollution. People should protest against the onslaught on coastal environment. The government should order suspension of UPCL activities till the environment pollution is completely stopped by the unit. If it is impossible to stop pollution, an agitation should be launched by the people, to demand for an alternative source of energy plant that does not harm environment,” he wished.

The Swamiji also has volunteered to actively participate in such an agitation, if the people come together on this issue.