Bhatkal: The Sharabi River, which flows through Ghausia Street within the municipal limits of Bhatkal, has become a sewer due to repeated discharge of drainage water from the nearby pumping station. The people in the area are concerned about the foul odor emanating from the river. When they pass by Ghausia Street on their way to Mundali, they are forced to cover their noses with their hands. 

The presence of garbage piled up on the river banks raises questions about the local residents and leaders. The leaders who have visited the river express concern about the garbage being thrown into the river instead of being disposed of by the municipal vehicles. However, the local residents argue that the Sharabi River flows through various areas, and due to the large amount of silt carried by the sewage discharged into the river, any garbage dumped into the river accumulates at the Ghousia Street Bridge where the water level is uneven.

The residents of Ghausia Street claim that they do not throw garbage into the river. They deposit their garbage in the municipal garbage truck. However, people from other areas are responsible for throwing their garbage into the river.

It is worth mentioning that the river is heavily silted due to the repeated discharge of dirty water from the pumping station, preventing clean sea water from reaching this area. The high level of mud and silt has caused a significant drop in the river's level, obstructing the flow of clean sea water to these areas.

The local people are worried about the health hazards posed by the river. They say that the dirty water is causing skin diseases and respiratory problems. They are also concerned about the damage that the sewage is doing to the river ecosystem.

The residents are urging Bhatkal MLA Mankal Vaidya, who has become the Fisheries and Port Minister, to focus on removing the mud and silt from the river and deepening it. Since Mankal Vaidya has achieved a resounding victory in the recent election, the people expect him to restore the historic Sharabi River to its former glory. The river holds historical significance as it was used by Arab caravans passing through Mushma Street in Bhatkal.

The local residents demand that the new minister, Mankal Vaidya, undertake a large-scale cleaning of the river and the surrounding area. They emphasize the need for special attention to be given to the removal of the scattered dirt. They believe it is crucial to conduct a thorough cleaning of the river and the area while focusing on removing the dirt.

When asked about the garbage piled up on the riverbank, Fayyaz Mulla, the councilor of the area, stated that the responsibility of removing garbage from the river lies with the minor irrigation department, not the municipal limits. Mulla mentioned that there was not much garbage in the past, but this time there is a significant pile on the riverbank, prompting them to consider submitting a memorandum to the irrigation department. He also stated that if necessary, he would contact Minister Mankal Vaidya to address the issue.

Another local councillor, Qaisar Mohtisham, proposed that the pumping station be properly maintained. He suggested repairing the motors and ensuring proper disposal of sewage. Mohtisham emphasized the importance of the Sharabi River within the Bhatkal ecosystem, as it serves as a water source for the local residents. He stressed the need to clean up the river to restore its intended functionality.