Pipes, Progress, and Parched
MANGALORE
Construction on the national highway near Gurupur has triggered a major water crisis, leaving several villages struggling for a steady supply. During a high-level meeting, MLA Bharat Shetty directed officials to hold an urgent session with the District Collector (DC) to fix the broken water systems and provide relief to the public.
The problem stems from the Gurupur-Kaikamba roadwork, where crews have reportedly failed to set up a proper system for water pipes. This oversight has made it nearly impossible for local Panchayats to maintain regular flow to areas like Ganjimath and Adyapadi. To make matters worse, engineers noted that natural water levels are dropping during the summer heat, causing supply to flicker in and out. “It is our duty to ensure the public gets water,” the MLA stated, insisting that red tape should not stand in the way of basic needs.
Beyond the water crisis, the meeting addressed a shocking rise in stray dog attacks. Officials revealed that over 8,400 dog bite cases were recorded in just four months. Dr. Bharat urged serious action to manage stray populations and prevent the spread of rabies.
The MLA also touched on wildlife concerns, noting that leopards are increasingly straying into residential areas in search of food. He praised education officials for strong exam results but warned against complacency. Finally, he called for a crackdown on hotels using poor-quality cooking oil, ensuring that public health remains a top priority alongside infrastructure.
