BANTWAL: The construction of the second vented dam at Tumbay with the intention of improving the drinking water supply situation in Mangalore has commenced quietly, much to the worry of the hundreds of people who are likely to lose their precious lands due to the project.
It is being said that as many as 711 acres of agricultural land would be submerged due to the project. The farmers likely to be displaced had even made a vehement demand for a through survey of the lands likely to be submerged due to the project, as the survey already held had not been satisfactory. It is also being said that the main intention of initiating the second vented dam project without much publicity was the fact that the real motive behind it was to protect the interests of the several mega projects which in all likelihood would need water, rather than bettering the water supply situation in the city.
The commencement of the project works without undertaking a fresh survey as demanded has also been a matter of worry for the farmers despite a movement launched by them under the banner of an Action Committee.
Cracks in dam:
The Tumbay vented dam which was constructed in the year 1993 has 134 pillars and as of now, the 15th pillar has developed cracks. However, locals referring to the cracks, argue that this was merely a ploy to ensure a smooth sail for the construction of the second dam. However, authorities argue that the peeling off of the plastering of the pillars is quite common in the dam. But the locals still have a strong suspicion that the cracks in the pillar would be used as an excuse for the construction of the second dam and to avert any possible protest from the locals.
So far there has been no mention of the compensation which people whose lands are likely to be submerged due this Rs 45 crore project. The farmers who are forced to believe the assurances of compensation made by the elected representatives, now have no other go but to look up at the skies.
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