Heavy Rains Wreak Havoc in Dakshina Kannada as Rivers Overflow and Landslides Disrupt Normal Life
Flooded roads, rising river levels, and multiple landslides prompt authorities to place disaster response teams on high alert across the district.
Relentless heavy rain and strong winds have caused widespread disruption across Dakshina Kannada district and Mangaluru, with flooding and landslides affecting normal life in several areas.
Overnight rainfall triggered multiple landslides, while overflowing rivers and streams inundated low lying areas, agricultural fields, and several roads. In view of the worsening situation, the district administration has placed the National Disaster Response Force and the State Disaster Response Force on high alert. Rescue teams have also been deployed at vulnerable locations.
Heavy rainfall in the Western Ghats catchment areas has led to a sharp rise in the water levels of the Netravathi, Kumaradhara, Mrityunjaya, Phalguni, also known as Gurupura, and Somavathi rivers. Several rivers are flowing close to or above the danger mark, prompting authorities to issue alerts for people living along riverbanks and in low lying areas.
In Belthangady taluk, the Mandaje Dharmasthala road has been closed following a landslide. In Neriya, the collapse of a retaining wall resulted in water entering several houses. Floodwaters have also submerged roads near Patra Bail and Laila, disrupting traffic on the Belthangady Kalleri route.
Flooding has also affected arecanut plantations, agricultural land, and residential houses in Mandaje and Ujire, causing significant losses to local residents.
The District Disaster Management Authority has established round the clock control rooms at all taluk headquarters to monitor the situation. Authorities have advised residents, tourists, and pilgrims to stay away from rivers, waterlogged roads, and coastal areas.
Fishermen have been instructed not to venture into the sea due to rough weather and high waves. Emergency personnel and earthmoving equipment have also been stationed along the Charmadi, Shiradi, and Sampaje Ghat roads to clear debris quickly and keep traffic moving in the event of fresh landslides.