Ex-MLA Yogish Bhat suspects conspiracy in city water scarcity

Mangalore Today News Network

Mangaluru, April 6, 2017:Former MLA N Yogish Bhat on April 5,  Tuesday spoke of suspicion of a conspiracy behind the drinking water crisis that has erupted in the city.

Speaking to media, Bhat, who has also served as the deputy speaker of the Legislative Assembly, said he will soon submit a report to DK DC Dr. K G Jagadeesha in this regard. The report includes a detailed comparative study on the available water, storage and distribution network.

He said, there is sufficient water, yet water is being supplied through tankers, while those involved in the job are drawing water from the main line.

Bhat, who also claimed to have frequently visited the Thumbe vented dam, from where drinking water is supplied to Mangaluru city, said that unlike early years, the situation on storage front has changed. "Although the new dam, with increased storage capacity, was sanctioned during the rule of the BJP, the current dispensation (Congress) released funds for the project. Most importantly, compared to the previous years, there is sufficient inflow of water into the dam. Besides, the rainy session is fast setting in. The available water is sufficient to cater to drinking water requirement till May," he said.

"On the other hand, to solve the water scarcity problem permanently, the MCC should adopt scientific methods and shift the manholes located close to wells. Otherwise, it may result in damage to the water bodies as reported in the recent past," he added.

Bhat said, an apartment complex at Bendoorwell that earlier received adequate water from a well within its precincts now stares at gloomy situation, with the water of the same well having been contaminated with drainage water, thanks to the seepage in the drainage network especially after the MCC took up the works on restoring the same.