Karnataka rain crisis: Risk of landslides in Chikkamagaluru, Kodagu on high alert

Bengaluru (IANS) | Karnataka is still grappling with severe flooding due to pre-monsoon rains, with Chikkamagaluru district on high alert even as there is a threat of landslides in Kodagu. The authorities are more worried about the incidents in view of the monsoon havoc last year.

In Chikkamagaluru, 77 villages falling within the limits of 47 gram panchayats have been declared under the danger zone.

A high alert has been issued in the entire district to take precautions as there was heavy damage last year.

Kodagu district has been worst affected by landslides and floods in the last five years. The district administration has already sent a report to the government regarding the relocation of 2,681 people from 768 families from Madikeri taluk. The administration has also decided to set up 26 camps to attend to emergency situations.

The report recommended that 4,162 people from 1,143 families in Somwarpet taluk be relocated and 30 camps be set up. Similarly, 2,049 people from 582 families are to be shifted and 26 camps are to be opened in Virajpet taluk.

Last year there was devastation in this area. Officials confirmed that the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) is arriving in Kodagu district.

Central and North Karnataka is also facing the havoc of rain. There is news of huge loss to the farmers. The administration is making preparations on a war footing.

State Chief Minister Siddaramaiah recently said that 52 people have died due to pre-monsoon rains (April to June) in the state, along with damage to properties and directed officials to provide immediate relief .

A total of 331 livestock losses have been reported, in addition to crop loss in 20,000 hectares and damage to 814 houses.

–IANS