Udupi: “If MLA Pramod Madhwaraj was aware and attracted the government’s gaze, the situation of people suffering from sand shortage would not have risen. Laborers and businessman would not have to suffer due to stop in construction of houses and buildings,” said Kota Srinivas Poojary.

He was speaking at a promotion meeting at Santhekatte in Kallianpur.

“In way, it’s like the sand mafia have taken control of the sand. Government has given permission to this. Legal permission had not been given to any form of sand removal in CRZ and non-CRZ limits including traditional sand removal. Without understanding the geology of coastal Karnataka, a new law was passed. As a result, an artificial shortage in sand has been created.

Though the people hav requested the MLA to provide sand, he has been completely oblivious to it. A load od san costs 15,000 rupees has compelled the common man to stop building ones house, the construction of complex and temples has fallen behind schedule. All those who are completely dependent on construction work are completely at loss. When answers are needed for this situation, Pramod Madhwaraj is missing.

He is directly responsible for this situation. Sand problem is the perfect example to show that Congress government is not people oriented. If there is a little sand available, it is due to the padayatre and fight of BJP and sand transporters,” he said.

“I will give importance to simplify sand rule so that the people can procure sand at a lower price like before. We will bring a separate rule on sand for coastal Karnataka as soon as BJP government comes to the administration. BJP government will stop transfer of sand to other districts. Once again, sand export has begun now. If I am provided opportunity this time, I’ll give importance to development and finding solution to problems,” said candidate Raghupati Bhat.