CM seeks detailed report on crop loss

Chief Minister H D Kumaraswamy directed the Chikkamagaluru deputy commissioner to conduct a detailed survey and submit a report on the loss of coffee and black pepper crops.

He further directed the Coffee Board and the Revenue Department officials to conduct a joint survey to assess the damage.

While chairing a review meeting on Saturday he said that heavy rains had caused extensive damages in Kodagu, Hassan, Chikkamagaluru, Shivamogga, Udupi and Dakshina Kannada districts. An accurate report on the loss of crops should be submitted, he added.

PWD Minister H D Revanna said that 80% of coffee crops had been damaged in Kodagu, Hassan and Chikkamagaluru districts. The loss figures submitted by the officials are not matching the reality, he added.

“Thus a joint survey by Coffee Board and revenue officials should be carried out,” he said and advised officials to write to the Coffee Board to send a special team to assess the total damage.

Deputy Commissioner M K Srirangaiah said that the loss due to damage on properties was estimated over Rs 279 crore. The government has already sanctioned Rs 25 crore.

The chief minister directed the officials to complete the work on UGD (underground drainage) in Chikkamagaluru town by December end.

A time frame should be fixed for the contractor to complete the work, he said and threatened to initiate disciplinary action against officials who fail to complete the work on UGD within the time frame.

Responding to a series of complaints on the poor quality of work in Karagada drinking water project, the chief minister directed the DC to set up a committee to inspect the spot and submit a report. Measures will be taken to upgrade the district hospital, he said.

Kumaraswamy said that Tarikere, Kadur and Chikkamagaluru taluks had experienced deficit rainfall during the season. The DC and ZP CEO should ensure that there is no shortage of drinking water, he added.