NECF seeks DC’s urgent intervention over bund across Phalguni river

Mangaluru: Seeking urgent intervention, National Environment Care Federation (NECF) has written to the Dakshina Kannada deputy commissioner over a coffer bund built across the Phalguni river as part of the construction of an overbridge between Tannirbhavi and Sulthan Battery.

The appeal follows a site inspection by NECF environmentalists, who described the structure as “a gross violation of environmental laws.” In its letter, the organisation alleged that Mangaluru Smart City Ltd’s “mud dam” had blocked the river and warned that, with the southwest monsoon expected within weeks, the obstruction could prevent the discharge of upstream rainwater and trigger severe backwater flooding in low-lying areas.

The NECF also pointed to risks to aquatic life due to stagnation caused by the bund, which it said traps industrial effluents and sewage from the Kuloor, Baikampady and Malavoor areas. The resulting toxic buildup, it added, threatens fishing communities and residents by increasing the risk of waterborne disease and groundwater contamination.

According to the organisation, reduced tidal flow has lowered dissolved oxygen levels, leading to documented fish kills and violations of the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974. It also alleged violations of national waterway norms.

The NECF urged the administration to open the bund before the first week of June, conduct a joint inspection with the KSPCB, revenue, and minor irrigation departments, remove dumped mud and debris to restore the river’s depth and carrying capacity, and submit an action-taken report within 10 days.

Separately, the organisation has sought an urgent site inspection for CRZ compliance from the regional director (environment) and lodged a complaint with Karnataka State Pollution Control Board against MSCL.