Protest march held against illegal sand mining threatening Pavoor-Uliya Kudru

Protest march held against illegal sand mining threatening Pavoor-Uliya Kudru

Mangalore Today News Network

Mangaluru, September 27, 2024: Members of the Catholic Sabha, Mangaluru and other pro-people organizations held a protest march on Friday, September 27, against the unchecked illegal sand mining from the Netravathi riverbed, which they said threatens the survival of Pavoor-Uliya Kudru (river island).

The march began at Balmatta and ended near Clock Tower, where leaders addressed the gathering. DYFI leader Muneer Katipalla warned that illegal sand mining was also endangering other areas, including Ranipura and Ullal Hoige. He cautioned that protests could escalate into indefinite sit-ins at police stations such as Konaje, Mangaluru Rural and Ullal, accusing political leaders of being complicit.

The protest expressed solidarity with Pavoor-Uliya residents and criticized the district administration for remaining silent despite repeated complaints. Around 40 families living on the island are said to be at risk. Mangaluru Diocese PRO Roy Castelino and DYFI leaders Sunil Kumar Bajal and B.K. Imtiyaz were also present.