MLC Ivan D'Souza Highlights Critical Delays in Mangaluru's Jalasiri Water Project
Mangaluru: MLC Ivan D'Souza has voiced serious concerns regarding the prolonged delays in implementing the Jalasiri 24x7 drinking water supply scheme in Mangaluru. He has formally brought this pressing issue to the attention of Basavaraj Horatti, the chairman of the Karnataka legislative council, urging immediate intervention.
Project Progress Falls Short of Targets
In a detailed letter to the council chairman, D'Souza revealed that the project has achieved less than 40% progress in connecting distribution lines. The ambitious scheme aims to provide 93,600 drinking water connections across the city, yet only 37,025 consumers have been connected to date, representing a significant shortfall.
According to the MLC, the project, which commenced in 2019, has recorded only 63% overall physical progress. Originally scheduled for completion by May 24, 2013, the deadline was later extended to December of this year. "However, uncertainty remains over whether the project will be completed within the revised timeframe," D'Souza emphasized, highlighting the ongoing delays.
Financial and Infrastructure Details
The Asian Development Bank (ADB)-funded Jalasiri drinking water project is estimated at Rs 821.9 crore. Key components include:
- Transmission Pipeline: 52.6 km planned, with 44.6 km completed so far.
- Distribution Network: 1,155.4 km planned, with only 868.8 km laid to date.
D'Souza asserted that the delay in completing this critical infrastructure is a primary factor behind the recurring drinking water crisis in Mangaluru, exacerbating hardships for residents.
Calls for Urgent Government Action
The MLC has urgently appealed to Urban Development Minister Byrathi Suresh to convene an immediate meeting and ensure uninterrupted drinking water supply to Mangaluru's citizens. He noted that the issue has been raised multiple times during district-level Karnataka Development Programme (KDP) meetings chaired by the district minister. However, officials concerned allegedly failed to act on the directions issued during those meetings, further stalling progress.
Public Inconvenience and Unplanned Works
D'Souza also pointed out that roads have been dug up in several parts of the city in an unplanned manner, causing significant inconvenience to the public. In some areas, these works have been ongoing for two to three years, disrupting daily life and highlighting poor project management.
The MLC's intervention underscores the urgent need for accountability and accelerated efforts to complete the Jalasiri scheme, which is vital for addressing Mangaluru's water security and improving the quality of life for its residents.
