KARWAR: The Karwar all-weather port achieved a rare feat this year when its revenue from imports and exports increased by 164 per cent and 112 per cent respectively, owing to the heavy demand for manganese and iron ore by China.

However, the transportation of the ore from the Hospet-Bellary region to the port by lorries has been causing traffic hazards and environmental pollution. The lorries dump the ore in any available space near the National Highway. According to the Superintendent of Police, Ravi S., 162 persons were killed in road accidents on the National Highway passing through the district after the transportation of ore began this year.

Violations

Hundreds of lorries overloaded with iron and manganese ore ply on the National Highway between Hubli and Karwar every day. They damage the road and cause traffic congestion. The tendency among lorry drivers to overtake other road users has caused many accidents. The police also say that the lorry drivers violate traffic rules. The Road Transport Authority and the police claim that they are imposing fines on the erring lorry drivers. But, the public point out that imposing fine is not the solution.

Most of the lorries transporting the ore are overloaded. It is alleged that the ore, which is in powder form, is not covered properly while being transported. It spills from the lorry and makes the road slippery. Another problem is that port area is too small to store the huge quantity of ore. As a result, the ore is dumped in any vacant space available near the National Highway and the port. The ore is also dumped near residential areas. The residents of Baithkol near the port complain that drinking water and milk turn red owing to the dust that settles on them.

At a meeting here on Thursday, the Minister for Cooperation, R.V. Deshpande, said that he had directed the district administration to suspend the transportation of ore for a week from Monday. He said that transportation will be resumed only after the existing stock at the port is cleared for export. The Minister also instructed the Deputy Commissioner to consult the Port Director and Mr. Ravi to identify spots where the ore can be deposited. He also said that two check-posts will be set up at Hosalli and Ramnagar to regulate the movement of lorries. The Minister said that he had received a lot of complaints about malpractice and corruption at the check-post in Ramnagar. He directed Mr. Ravi to look into the matter and initiate action if necessary.

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