Honnavar: The survey related to the proposed private commercial port at Kasarkod Tonka has reportedly concluded, with opposition claims that it was conducted while dissenters were in police custody. Sources from the Revenue Department have officially acknowledged the survey's completion.
Recall that local residents vehemently opposed and staged protests against the survey when officials arrived in Tonka on January 31 to carry out the assessment.
Despite Bhatkal Assistant Commissioner Naina's attempts to explain that the survey was for verifying the new high tide line (HTL) to designate the Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ), protesters alleged a hidden agenda for constructing the commercial port.
The protesters successfully impeded the survey, accusing it of being a cover for port construction, leading to clashes with the police.
During attempts to disperse fishermen opposing the HTL verification, the police resorted to caning, resulting in injuries for many protesters. Amid the chaos, 20 protesters were apprehended by the police.