MANGALURU: The Mangaluru City Corporation (MCC) has issued notices to residences and apartments near the historic Moilykere lake at Mahakalipadpu, following the discovery of sewage flowing into the water body from surrounding areas.
Known also as Shettibettu Kere, Moilykere was developed by the Mangaluru Urban Development Authority (MUDA) but continues to face pollution issues even after being transferred to the MCC. The civic body plans to take legal action under the Karnataka Municipal Corporations Act of 1976.
The pollution problem was brought to light in the state legislature by MLC Ivan D’Souza, who highlighted it during a discussion with Urban Development Minister Byrathi Suresh. D’Souza noted that the minister, during a recent visit, witnessed the contamination of lakes due to nearby sewage inflow. He emphasized that although the minister requested an action report, officials failed to act accordingly.
“The minister confirmed that an inspection at Moilykere revealed the absence of an underground drainage (UGD) network. Nearby houses use leach pits, and some have been directing sewage into drains. Notices were issued on February 20 and March 14. Legal action under sections 225 and 263(5) will be taken against offenders,” remarked D’Souza.
D’Souza added that the process of locating land for a wet well to establish a UGD network in the area is underway.
Local residents have reiterated that providing UGD connections is crucial for reversing pollution and restoring the lake. Approximately 400 homes in the Mahakalipadpu, Adarsh Nagar, Shettibettu, and Jeppupatna regions currently lack UGD connections. They have been urging MLAs, ministers, and MCC officials for these connections for the past six years.
