Dubare, one of the district’s prominent tourist destinations, attracts visitors with its scenic beauty and the waters of the River Cauvery. However, the plight of tribal families living in Dubare Hadi, beyond the popular tourist zones, remains largely unnoticed.
To draw attention to their grievances, the Kodagu District Working Journalists’ Association, Kodagu Press Club and Kushalnagar Taluk Working Journalists’ Association organised a “Walk and Sing” programme at Dubare Hadi.
Journalists observed the lack of basic amenities, including the absence of Anganwadi teachers, poor road connectivity, inadequate housing and insufficient infrastructure. ITDP Officer Honnegowda, Deputy Director of the Women and Child Welfare Department Prasanna Kumar, and CESC Executive Engineer S.S. Satish were invited to the spot to hear the residents’ concerns.
Residents complained about the absence of proper electricity connections, deplorable road conditions and difficulties in accessing medical care, citing instances of deaths during emergency transportation. Many families continue to live in fragile huts, some of which have been damaged by falling trees.
Local resident Nagu pointed out that several families lack essential documents such as ration cards and alleged official negligence. Residents also demanded construction of a suspension bridge across the river to improve connectivity.
Children have been deprived of Anganwadi education due to prolonged teacher vacancies. Local Lower Primary School teacher Elizabeth said Anganwadi children are temporarily accommodated in the school. She noted that 17 students are enrolled from Classes 1 to 5 this year. The school faces issues such as inadequate security, intrusion by wild animals and cattle, and irregular electricity supply despite receiving donated computers.
Residents highlighted the dilapidated condition of houses, overcrowding and fears of structural collapse. They demanded immediate housing assistance, road repairs and the opening of a fair price shop in Dubare Hadi.
Former District Magistrate member and tribal leader Chandru alleged that the honey-collecting tribal community has been neglected and receives little attention except during elections. He called for basic amenities and a concrete road, and urged authorities to hold a village meeting in Dubare.
Officials conducted a visit around the settlement, inspecting houses, the school and the Anganwadi, and assured residents of action.
ITDP Officer Honnegowda stated that drinking water and electricity connections have been provided and that a road proposal has been submitted to the government. Title deeds have been issued to 42 families, and community rights will be granted after survey completion. A residential school has been established in Nanjarayapatna for tribal children. He also mentioned housing assistance of ?4.50 lakh under the Panchayat scheme and a proposal for a suspension bridge.
Deputy Director Prasanna Kumar assured immediate appointment of Anganwadi teachers and efforts to recruit qualified local candidates.
CESC Executive Engineer Satish clarified that electricity connections have been provided to most houses, with pending cases awaiting documentation.
Former Gram Panchayat President and former State Western Ghats Task Force Chairman Shanteyanda A. Ravikushalappa urged officials to ensure timely provision of basic facilities and appreciated the journalists’ efforts in bringing the issue to light.
Office-bearers of the journalists’ associations were present.
