Locals oppose MSEZ pipeline in Mukka

The localites staged a protest in Mukka on Saturday for the same cause. Speaking on behalf of the protesters, Mogaveera community leader Shobhendra Sasihitlu said the proposed installation of pipeline in the sea would pollute the sea water and harm the sea creatures.

Such plans would put the fishermen in trouble. The sea has been already polluted because of the waste disposed by BASF and MRPL, now proposed MSEZ project would add fuel to the fire, he said.

Addressing the protesters, Karnataka Fisheries Development Board President Nithin Kumar said, the environmental department has not yet allotted permission for laying the pipeline.

When the Mogaveera community members informed the matter to the Deputy Commissioner, he had assured of calling a meeting in this regard on May 16. But amidst his assurances, the construction work has started, giving way for suspicion, he said and warned of staging a severe protest if the department allows to lay pipeline without considering the opinion of the public.

Just a day before the protest, a barge has anchored in the Mukka beach for pipeline work. As the barge is required to give a rent of Rs 90,000  to anchor in Port, the barge has been anchored in Mukka, it is said.

The pipeline will be laid after dredging the sand from the sea using barge.
Confused lot.

However, the confusion prevails among the fishermen organisation regarding the pipeline. If the localites have opposed the pipeline laying, Karavali Naada Doni Meenugarara Vedike leader has urged to provide sufficient compensation to the fishermen.

The fishing women supported the protest on Saturday.