Mangaluru : “We have asked an agency to test a new technology – sea wave breaker – in a kilometre along the shoreline. We will see the effectiveness of the new technology and take a call on it,” said the CM Basavaraj Bommai at Ullal.

He was speaking to reporters after visiting Battapady, one of the worst affected areas due to sea erosion in Ullal region of Mangaluru taluk. “We need permanent solutions. We will seek central funds also. Enough money has been wasted on temporary solutions,” he asserted.

The CM admitted that huge monies were spent on sea erosion and there were accusations of unscientific work done resulting in waste of the funds. “Through ADB we have spent close to Rs 300 crore. we cannot let it go to waste. we will investigate the shortcomings and take necessary action,” he added.

Pointing out that sea erosion has been severe in July itself, he directed deputy commissioners of the coastal districts to shift residents whose houses were vulnerable and provide them with food, clothing and shelter till rains end.

Regarding the tremors in Sullia, the CM said even though the magnitude was less, the impact it has left on the residents was huge. “They are scared,” he said, noting that the Central grants of Rs 40 crore for seismic study would be used to find solutions and minimise the impact.

Earlier the CM visited the houses that were damaged by mild tremors at Sullia and later visited the site where a retaining wall is being constructed near the bridge over River Nethravathi at Uppinangady. He also handed over cheques to the kin of the deceased in the Panjikallu landslide. He was accompanied by minister R Ashoka, Sunil Kumar, S Angara, MLA Rajesh Naik, Dc Dr KV Rajendra, MP Nalin Kumar Kateel, among others.