Hebri: Mobile tower on hillock at risk of collapse after landslide

Hebri: A mobile tower and other infrastructure erected on a hill near the Shivapura Melpete fish market is in danger of collapse due to landslides.

The base of the tower is likely to be breached if another mudslide occurs, locals said and added that this heightened the risk of a collapse.

The tower sits next to the Udupi-Shivamogga National Highway, which is used by the public for their everyday commute. The residents are worried that another landslide could not only cut off road connectivity but also damage the houses and shops nearby.

Locals allege negligence

According to locals, the tower was constructed on private land on a 15-year lease. The land owner has not agreed to continue the lease agreement and has asked the company operating the tower to vacate the site immediately, they added.

However, the company has neglected the issue so far, locals alleged.

Petitions have been raised at the panchayat level about the issue, asking concerned officials to vacate the structure before any disaster befalls, locals said.