Karnataka - Bangalore

Readers' Mail

Warning system

Sir, — The unanticipated tsunami that struck the southern coastline has taken a toll unparalleled in recent times and left many people homeless. As two-thirds of the earth's surface is covered with water, I wonder whether the increase in population, unbridled industrialisation and depletion of forests have led to an increase in the frequency of natural calamities.

Apart from rehabilitating the marooned people, which should be the first priority, the Government should also spare thought to investigate the causes of earthquakes and tsunamis and put in place a global warning system to evacuate people in times of emergency.

As a lot of money and material is pouring in for the victims, the authorities concerned should ensure that they reach the affected at the earliest and take steps to keep away corruption and misappropriation.

B.S. Ganesh,

Bangalore

Streetlights

Sir, — The Bangalore Mahanagara Palike is reported to have awarded contracts to some people/companies to maintain streetlights. But little is being done to replace damaged bulbs and tubes in parks and other places.

People are also unaware of the contractors in charge of maintaining the streetlights to inform them about any streetlight that is not working.

It is common to see streetlights switched on much before it gets dark and they continue to be on even after sunrise.

Will the concerned authorities look into these problems?

K.T. Thimma Reddy,

Bangalore.

Help miners

Sir, — Some years ago, the then BJP Government closed down Bharat Gold Mines Ltd. in Kolar Gold Fields without making alternative arrangements for the miners. Since then, thousands of workers have been facing financial hardships. They have not received their wage dues and retirement benefits.

Although many ministers have made promises, the State Government has not implemented any measure for the welfare of the miners. Legislation has been passed under the five-year plans to protect employees of sick mills, factories and industries. However, the KGF miners are not provided the benefits of these provisions. Will the coalition Government at the Centre and in the State do the needful to improve the condition of these miners?

G.T. Rajan,

Bangalore.

Readers may email their letters to: letters.bangalore @thehindu.co.in

Bangalore

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