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Udupi: The 18th ward of Manipal (Ananta Nagar), which includes the scenic Mannapalla Lake and prominent parts of Manipal, is a beautiful region. However, a lack of basic infrastructure and the negligence of representatives are preventing this area from living up to its potential.

Mannapalla’s plight

The condition of Mannapalla Lake and the surrounding industrial area stands as a testament to the irresponsibility of officials. Although Mannapalla has the potential to be a unique biodiversity site, it is currently in a state that makes people hesitate to enter. Overgrown bushes, unclean walking paths, and a total lack of security plague the area. To make matters worse, sewage from neighboring areas is being drained directly into the lake.

Struggles of Hudco Colony

In the industrial area near Hudco Colony, sewage and bath water from labor housing are being discharged directly into government drains via pipes. The LIG and MIG areas of Hudco Colony are in a pathetic state; green, stagnant water filled with garbage heaps has blocked the drains, causing a foul stench. Local resident Devendra Prabhu notes that during the rainy season, this sewage overflows onto the main roads.

Industrial area tragedy

Visitors to the prestigious Shivalli Industrial Area are welcomed by dust and stench. Factories providing employment to thousands lack proper roads for the heavy vehicles that frequent them. Except for a few concrete stretches, the roads are riddled with potholes and stones. Heaps of gravel left over from incomplete repairs pose a slip hazard for two-wheelers. Local resident Naveen Shetty adds that a 400-meter stretch near Prasanna Ganapathi road is only 4.5 meters wide, making it impossible for pedestrians to navigate when water logs the area.

Drainage and sewage issues

Every crossroad in this ward highlights drainage failures. Stormwater drains are clogged with silt and trash, appearing untouched for years. Heaps of garbage and liquor bottles line the roadsides in the industrial area. Local resident Santhosh Pai suggests that vacant, bush-covered spots that currently attract snakes should be cleared to build small parks or play areas for children.

Waste from residential complexes

Construction debris and waste from residential complexes and government quarters also flow into open drains. During heavy rains, water stands knee-deep on the road to Ananta Nagar First Cross, making travel impossible.

Ward Coverage: Ananta Nagar, Hudco Colony, ALN Layout, Mannapalla Area, Industrial Area, Alevoor route to BSNL Quarters, Police Quarters, opposite Post Office, Syndicate Circle, Coin Circle, and three blocks of KMC.

Urgent Requirements

• Solution for drainage and sewage problems.

• Development of Mannapalla Lake.

• Repair of industrial area roads.

• Proper maintenance of streetlights.

• Fines for those discharging waste and sewage into the open.

Total negligence

"Mannapalla has been completely neglected. It should be cleaned and developed as a tourist spot with clean walking tracks, play areas for children, cycling tracks, and benches for seniors. Security for women is essential. If the district administration hands over the lake to the City Municipality, development is possible." — Narasimha Nayak and Balakrishna Shetty, Locals.