Southwest monsoon brings heavy rain, relief from heat on coast

Mangaluru: With the southwest monsoon making its onset over Karnataka, widespread rainfall lashed across three coastal districts on Friday, bringing much-needed relief from the sweltering heat. Dakshina Kannada remained under cloudy skies throughout the day as rain continued in several parts.

According to rainfall data recorded in the 24-hour period ending 8.30 am on Friday, by the Karnataka State Natural Disaster Monitoring Committee, Bhatkal in Uttara Kannada district recorded 132.2 mm rainfall, the highest in the state. In Dakshina Kannada, Surathkal recorded 73.2 mm rainfall, Ullal received 71.6 mm rainfall followed by Padumarnad—65.5 mm, Krishnapura-61.5 mm, Mulki–56.2 mm, Moodubidire-53.2mm, Gurpura, Kilpady and Munnur had 51 mm each, Beluvai and Yekkaru 48.5 mm.

Following heavy rain, waterlogging happened on several roads in the city, including Kodialbail and Karangalpady, thus inconveniencing two-wheeler riders. Meanwhile, a service road caved in near Mijar on the Mangaluru-Moodubidire route after rain on Friday. A minor landslide occurred inside the forest at Badaje in Belthangady on Thursday.

No new works during monsoon: DC

With the onset of the southwest monsoon, Dakshina Kannada DC Darshan HV has directed authorities not to undertake any new works, except those essential for monsoon preparedness and emergency response.

Chairing a disaster management review meeting of the Mangaluru City Corporation on Thursday, he instructed officials to immediately restore roads dug up under various projects, and complete pending works without delay. He also ordered the removal of encroachments obstructing the free flow of rainwater, and directed strict action against violations.

The DC asked officials to clear construction materials and debris dumped on roadsides and footpaths by private builders. He further directed authorities to conduct surveys of houses damaged by heavy rainfall, and submit reports within 48 hours.

Ward-wise incident commanders appointed for monsoon preparedness have been directed to remain accessible to the public, visit vulnerable locations in their respective wards, and take proactive measures to prevent rain-related damage. In the event of emergencies, officials must respond immediately and coordinate with the forest department, fire and emergency services and the control room.

The DC also directed officials to prevent blockages in underground drainage systems to avoid waterlogging and ensure that traffic congestion on highways and major roads is cleared within 30 minutes.

Additional DC Raju K warned that govt employees assigned to monsoon and disaster management duties would face action under the Disaster Management Act if found negligent in discharging their responsibilities. DCP (law and order) Mithun HN and MCC commissioner Ravichandra Naik were present.