Udupi Seawater Polluted by Untreated Sewage; Upa Lokayukta Launches 17 Complaints

Local fishermen and residents of Udupi District have reported high turbidity, foul odour and a noticeable decline in fish catch after a recent discharge of untreated sewage from municipal drains into the Arabian Sea. The spill, discovered on March 18, has turned the once-clear waters into a brownish sludge, raising immediate concerns about water quality and public health.

In response, the Upa Lokayukta of Karnataka has taken the matter suo motu, lodging 17 complaints against the district administration, water‑management officers and relevant ministries. The complaints allege non‑compliance with the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974 and a failure to maintain separate sewage treatment facilities for the growing population along the coastline.

The environmental impact is already evident: coral patches are bleaching, marine life is scarce and tourism revenue may take a hit. Moreover, the incident could trigger legal action under the Karnataka Coastal Zone Management Act, potentially leading to fines, penalties and mandatory remedial measures for the district authorities. Source: Google News – Udupi District.