"Extremely heavy rain" alert in coastal Karnataka, 3 dead in landslide

"Extremely heavy rain" alert in coastal Karnataka, 3 dead in landslide

Mangalore Today News Network / NDTV

Mangaluru, July 07, 2022: All schools and colleges have been shut in coastal Karnataka after the Indian Meteorological Department predicted extremely heavy rain for coastal districts in the state. Three died in a rain-related incident in Mangaluru.

 

Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai has instructed the officials to conduct a survey of the flood-prone areas to assess whether the residents of the concerned areas needed to be relocated temporarily or permanently, his Office said in a statement.

"In 2009 after massive flood havoc 60 villages were permanently relocated. But people returned to their earlier habitations once the flood waters receded. We are considering the option of building well-equipped rehabilitation centres in higher places along the river banks and low-lying areas so that people could be shifted there whenever they are affected by floods," he said.

The Deputy Commissioners of the affected districts have been instructed to take up rescue and relief works immediately, Mr Bommai said. Those residing in low-lying areas would be shifted to safer places, he added.

Heavy rain has disrupted normal life in coastal areas and Malnad region of Karnataka. The rains have caused damages to houses, buildings, electric poles and properties in affected areas, also rivers have swollen due to the downpour, inundating agricultural fields and low lying areas.

A labourer from Kerala died after he was trapped under the mud following landslide at Panjikallu village, about 30 kms from Mangaluru distirct.

"I have held discussions with Deputy Commissioners of rain affected districts. Already rescue works are on and I have been directed to take up relief work. Because of heavy and incessant rains houses and properties have got damaged in coastal districts and Kodagu, and the rains have continued," Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai said on Wednesday.

He has directed the deployment of SDRF and NDRF to take up rescue works.