Udupi DC directs relocation of 200 hutment dwellers

Udupi DC directs relocation of 200 hutment dwellers

Mangalore Today News Network

Udupi, July 10, 2014 : Following a spot inspection at the slum area here on july 9, the Deputy Commissioner Muddu Mohan has stressed that there is an urgent need to rehabilitate about 200 residents of the slums in Nittur, considering the unhygienic and insecurity conditions in the area. DC directed Udupi City Municipal Commissioner K Srikanth Rao to take action to shift the dwellers in 85 huts in the area with due urgency.

 

 

Besides, the DC pointed to the possibility of accidents as they are residing besides national highway. Most of the families are staying there since more than 20 years and they hail from places like Hanagal and Hubli. As the residents resort to open defecation, the area is a sure target for communicable diseases. The majority of the dwellers here work in Malpe port. The number of huts in Nittur is on the rise every year.

Speaking to media, the DC said the dwellers would be shifted as the area is posing  serious threats both in terms of hygiene and risk to the life of inhabitants.

The Deputy Commissioner interacted with the people and listened to their grievances. Most of the women in the slums had problems with open defecation and safety in the area. He was told that the children in the area are going to nearby schools, but none of the families had toilets.

No BPL cards : Earlier, the DC had directed DHO Dr Ramachandra Bairy to make arrangements for constructing toilets in the slum area. But officials from various departments convinced the DC over the implications of residing by the side of NH and that the priority would be given to relocating them. Further,  none of these residents have BPL cards, and can not avail benefits under various government schemes. The DC ordered the officials to ensure issue of BPL cards at the earliest.

He also directed the officials to provide proper drinking water facilities. CMC Commissioner K Srikanth Rao said that as of now, there is no availability of the land in Udupi city limits. He assured to identify the land to rehabilitate the slum dwellers at the earliest. An official on condition of anonymity said prostitution racket in the area has become a major concern. The core of the cause must be addressed at the earliest.