Contractors dump debris into Yettinahalla, draw flak

Throwing norms to the winds, contractors are dumping debris generated from Yettinahole deviation project into Yettinahalla  of the taluk drawing flak from the people and environmentalists.

Mounds of thousands of loads of boulders and mud can be seen on more than half-a-kilometre stretch, abutting the railway track. 

Two companies --- BVPR Company and Amruth Constructions --- have taken up the project which is underway at Maheshwari Estate near Kumbaradi and Kesaganahalli villages.

The works related to the construction of a dam and two jack wells are under progress. As deep pits have to be dug for the laying of jack wells, the contractors are using explosives to break rocks. 

Loads of debris, consisting of rocks and mud, have been shifted to Yettinahalla, where they are being dumped, affecting flora and fauna.

The Revenue and Forest Department officials, who should protect natural resources and government properties, have turned a blind eye towards the issue, the locals charged. 

Speaking to Deccan Herald, coffee grower B B Shivashankar charged that the departments have not taken any step in this regard. 

“By dumping the debris, the companies are destroying nature and it is an offence.

 =We are not opposed to the works taken up near Maheshwari Estate. But the dumping of waste is affecting the course of the rivulet. It is condemnable. A written complaint would be lodged against the contractors with the Centre and also before a court,” he added.

Railway route
He said the Bengaluru-Mangaluru rail route passes through the stretch, where works are being taken up. 

“There is a railway bridge across Yettinahalla. Explosives are being used to remove huge boulders, lay the pipeline, construct the dam and laying of jack well under the project. Four pipelines pass through the railway route, next to the bridge. It may affect the rail route also,” Shivashankar said.

Legal action
Speaking to Deccan Herald, Tahsildar D Nagesh said measures would be taken to ensure smooth flow of the rivulet.

“Dumping of debris is an offence. Legal action would be taken against the contractors, if they are violating the norms. I would visit the spot soon,” he added.