Western side of Baikampady Industrial Area in distress due to flooding

Western side of Baikampady Industrial Area in distress due to flooding

Mangalore Today News Network

Mangaluru, July 8, 2024: Unscientifically built downstream drains are causing annual flooding on the western side of the Baikampady Industrial area, with no action taken by the district administration or elected representatives to resolve the issue, said N. Arun Padiyar, president of the Kanara Industries Association, on Monday, July 8.

In a statement, Mr. Padiyar highlighted that the unscientific design of downstream drains passing through the APMC yard and BPCL was obstructing water flow, resulting in the flooding of several units on Monday. A critical choke point is caused by Hume pipes installed under the road by APMC for water flow, which have been largely filled with silt. The flooding occurs every year, he said.

 

Among the units affected by flooding is Malabar Oxygen, a key supplier of oxygen to hospitals in the district. Other affected units include Ajith Enterprises, which manufactures essential equipment for various large industries, along with Durga Motors, JV Springs, Gurudev Plastics, Akolite, Manjunath Rubbers, Rodricks Garage, and other micro, small, and medium industries, all suffering cumulative losses amounting to crores annually. The rainfall on Monday resulted in an estimated loss of around ₹2 crore, he said.

Despite raising concerns with the district administration, the industries department, MLAs, and the MP about the need for funds to correct the unscientific design of downstream drains, no action has been taken. The KIA voluntarily collected ₹25 lakh from its members and spent it on the works over the past two years.

Mr. Padiyar has called for immediate and decisive action to prevent recurring losses to MSME units, which affect the livelihood of 20,000 workers. He emphasized the need to protect the industrial ecosystem of Baikampady.