Officials fear knife attacks by miscreants

Mysuru: The Cauvery Neeravari Nigam Limited (CNNL) will write to the Mysuru Superintendent of Police (SP) seeking security and regular patrolling along the Varuna Canal Aqueduct (D. Devaraj Urs Canal) near Hale Kesare crossing the Mysuru-Bengaluru Highway to prevent further damage to its pillars.

The decision follows a series of reports published by Star of Mysore highlighting the deteriorating condition of the aqueduct.

On July 10, SOM carried the report titled ‘5 Months On…: Aqueduct Still in Danger’, drawing attention to the continued neglect and the threat posed by waste burning beneath the structure to extract copper from discarded electrical wires.

Speaking to Star of Mysore, CNNL Executive Engineer A.S. Bhaskar said the aqueduct has become a hotspot for illegal activities during the night, apart from facing structural damage.

“The area is frequently occupied by people consuming alcohol and indulging in other unlawful activities under the cover of darkness. We will write to the Mysuru Superintendent of Police requesting regular security, night patrolling and surveillance to curb these activities and prevent further damage to the aqueduct,” he said.

Bhaskar noted that officials are unable to evict the trespassers on their own, as such attempts could lead to violent confrontations.

“There is a risk of retaliation, including possible knife attacks. Providing security is the responsibility of the Police and we have already brought the issue to the notice of the jurisdictional Sub-Inspector,” he said.

On the condition of the aqueduct, particularly the damaged Pillar No. 49, Bhaskar said the matter had been discussed at the highest levels of the Government.

“Senior officials and Ministers have directed us to take up immediate jacketing and concrete reinforcement of Pillar No. 49. We are consulting structural experts and finalising contractors so that repair work can begin at the earliest,” he added.