Thousands of people join protest against NH widening in Shirali

Shirali 18 January 2019:(Bhatkallys News Bureau) Thousands of people joined the mass protest in Shirali on Thursday, against the widening of National Highway, as it was limited to 30 meters width and called for authorities to widen it to 45 meters as planned earlier. The protesters blocked National Highway for about 30 minutes and called upon the Bhatkal Assistant Commissioner to initiate action on their demands. However, Bhatkal CPI KL Ganesh along with his police team plunged into action and cleared the National Highway by moving away the protesters. The protesters then headed towards Shirali Gram Panchayath office and protested there. Speaking on the occasion, Gram panchayat President Venkatesh Naik said, “Though we had urged officials and had submitted several memorandums to extend the widening of road to 45 meters. No action was initiated in this regard. As they are ignorant about the public demand, we have all gathered here to protest against it.” He added. AC Sajjid Mulla later reached the spot and accepted the Memorandum from the protesters. “I have already discussed about the matter with the district commissioner and an emergency meeting on 19th Jan has been called regarding the issue. We will conclude this issue soon” AC said while accepting the memorandum It has been estimated that about 3000 people took part in the protest. Shops, rickshaw services were halted across the village during the protest. Security was also beefed up to avoid law and order situation. (Bhatkallys News Bureau)