Mangaluru: Chief executive officer of Dakshina Kannada zilla panchayat Anand K instructed the preparation and submission of necessary plans to mitigate the risks of recurring natural disasters in the district using the State Disaster Response Fund (SDRF). He chaired a meeting at the deputy commissioner's office on Tuesday, discussing potential projects under SDRF and strategies for coastal management.
Funds can be used to undertake projects to reduce the risks of natural disasters like cyclones, landslides, lightning and floods. This includes setting up proper drainage systems for floodwaters, raising awareness by identifying natural risk reduction plans and improving local infrastructure, he stated. Preventive measures must be implemented to avert potential natural hazards and necessary actions should be enforced. Officials are directed to visit potential hazard areas and promptly submit proposals with appropriate explanations of the required projects.
He also asked for explanations and estimates on how these projects would benefit the public and district administration. Additional deputy commissioner G Santhosh Kumar mentioned that in areas frequently affected by floods and waterlogging, SDRF should be used for remedial measures. The industrial area from Baikampady through APMC has been facing floods for years due to inadequate main drainage. Similarly, floods occur in the Maravoor barrage and the Adyapadi backwater area. Proposals for necessary flood control projects under the SDRF should be submitted, he suggested.
Coastal management
The National Centre for Sustainable Coastal Management under the ministry of environment and forests conducted a study and recommended various protective measures in 11 locations to address sea erosion in the district, as informed by port department officials during the meeting. The report suggested managing coastal erosion through jetties and sand nourishment. The National Green Tribunal ordered that no work should be undertaken without a coastal management plan. A proposal for a project worth Rs 355 crore under ADB Tranche-3 has already been submitted, they informed.
The meeting was attended by Mangaluru City Corporation (MCC) commissioner CL Anand and others.