Emphasis to pending works, new plans: MP Shobha Karandlaje

Udupi: The sand problem will be resolved and sand extraction shall begin from August 1^st.  talks will be held with navy officials regarding the salvaging of Suvarna Tribhuja boat, informed Udupi-Chikkamagaluru Lok Sabha constituency re-elected MP Shobha Karandlaje.

What aim have you kept to complete the pending works of last year?

Importance will be given to the completion of the works which have already been started including Konkan Railway Ramakrishna Hegde Skill Development Centre, Kendriya Vidyalaya, Uppoor Government Toolkit and Training Center, Gems and Jewellary Centre, completion of the upgrading of the state highway to national highway, Konkan Railways electrification and track doubling completion.

What are the aims for this year?

After understanding the Union government’s facilities, I’ll attempt to introduce them here. I’ll give importance to tourism development. Rs 8 crore have come for Padubidri beach under the Blue Flag scheme. I’ll attempt to get even more grants. I’ll give my attention towards the development of Yermal, Hejmady, Kodikanyana fisheries port. Since a Fisheries Department has been started, I’ll speak with the fisheries minister regarding deep sea fishing, diesel subsidy, CRZ and importantly the safety of the fishermen.

It is being said that Kadiyali-Manipal road work is unscientific?

The road works are being conducted as per the design by the engineers. If there are no drains, service road and are unscientific, then they shall be rectified.

What about the problems of coconut, areca nut, coffee and pepper cultivators?

The state government must provide support price for coconut. The issue regarding the ban of areca nut import is in the Supreme Court. To discourage the import or areca nut, we have increased the import tax. Its minimum rate for a KG should be Rs 250. I’ll attempt to bring a control over the diseases plaguing coffee plantations and try to get subsidy. There is allegation that black pepper is being imported. The merchants in Kerala have gone to the high court there regarding this issue. Import duty may be increased as a move to reduce the import.

Regarding Pepper Park…

When there was a plan to create a ‘Spice Park’ in Chikkamagaluru, there was a demand from the people for the creation of a ‘Pepper Park’. The state government must give land for the creation of the park. If provided, it will be started.

What attempts will you make for the salvaging of Suvarna Tribhuja and insurance relief for the fishermen?

It should be realized on what technology is available for salvaging. If the boat is not salvaged, it will be difficult to get the boat insurance. I’ll speak with the navy in this concern. It will try to make available the insurance relief which is applicable for the deceased. I’ll meet with the new Defence Minister and Finance Minister regarding this.

Will sand mining begin from August 1^st?

The Deputy Commissioner has assured that sand mining shall begin from August 1^st. a 7 member committee has been created in the state and the chief authority has been given to the district committee. I’ll follow up on this.

Swacch Bharat Campaign awareness has been inculcated. But, will the government take any measures regarding the banning of plastic?

Most of the problem is because of the use of plastic products. A rule is required in this connection. I’ll propose this.