Bhatkal: The delay in initiating the long-pending cleaning and rejuvenation of the Sarabi river has sparked fresh concern in Bhatkal, with the Sarabi River Horata Samithi questioning why work has not begun despite ₹10 crore being sanctioned nearly nine months ago.
Raising the issue at a meeting held at the office of Majlis Islah wa Tanzeem, members of the Samithi expressed dissatisfaction over the lack of progress and urged the organisation to seek clear answers from the state minister it had supported.
While acknowledging that the Karnataka government had approved ₹10 crore for the project following the minister’s announcement, the Samithi said there has been no visible movement on the ground so far. “Sanctioning funds alone is not enough unless the work begins on time,” members remarked, questioning whether the concerned departments had taken any concrete steps.
With the monsoon approaching, the Samithi warned that continued delay could lead to flooding in low-lying parts of the town, placing residents at risk.
Once regarded as the lifeline of Bhatkal, the Sarabi river has now deteriorated into a polluted stretch filled with silt, sludge and sewage. The Samithi noted that the river, which flows into the Arabian Sea, historically served as a route for Arab traders but is today struggling for survival.
Members also raised concern over the underground drainage (UGD) pumping station at Ghausia Street, from where wastewater is reportedly being discharged into the river, further worsening its condition.
The Samithi said the delay, despite sanctioned funds, points to possible administrative or procedural bottlenecks and called for transparency, including a clear timeline for the commencement of work.
It may be recalled that the Horata Samithi, formed by local sports centres including Cosmos, Sunshine, Lion, Moon Star, Royal and Sultani, has been actively campaigning for the restoration of the river and had organised protests in the past. Officials had earlier indicated that work would begin after technical approvals and be completed before the monsoon, but no progress has been reported so far.
Representatives, including Maulavi Anjum Gangavali, Abdul Salam Chamundi, Qaisar Mohtisham, Shamoon and Ibrahim from different sports centres, attended the meeting and pressed for immediate action.
Responding to the concerns, Tanzeem President Inayatullah Shabandri and other office-bearers assured that the issue would be taken up with the minister. The Samithi, however, made it clear that it would decide its next course of action if the delay continues.