Karnataka Weather Alert: Heavy Rains Lead To Waterlogging, Traffic Disruption

Heavy rains have disturbed lives across Karnataka, leading to floods, landslides and failure of transportation. Karnataka authorities are on high alert as forecasts predict more rainfall. The downpour has severely affected daily life in coastal and northern areas of the state.

In Mangaluru, several low-lying areas like Pumpwell and Kankanady faced severe waterlogging due to overflowing drains. Residents reported rainwater entering homes and businesses, causing property damage. A major traffic intersection at Pumpwell Junction experienced heavy congestion as buses from Bengaluru had to reroute via Nanthur Circle.

Impact on Infrastructure

The Jayashree Gate-Bikarnakatte road was submerged, highlighting the city's drainage issues. Locals expressed frustration over the Mangaluru City Corporation's inaction despite repeated complaints. In a related incident, a landslide near Kettikallu on National Highway-169 disrupted traffic. Fortunately, no casualties occurred, and emergency crews are working to clear debris.

Udupi district also suffered from flooding in areas such as Brahmavar and Gundibail. Service roads along National Highway 66 were inundated. Villages in Kundapur taluk like Heroor and Haladi faced significant flooding too. Local police confirmed these reports.

Warnings and Precautions

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued an orange alert for Dakshina Kannada, Udupi, Shivamogga, Chikkamagaluru, and Kodagu districts. Thunderstorms and lightning are expected in the coming days. Authorities have urged residents to avoid waterlogged areas and report emergencies to disaster response teams.

In Yadgir district of northern Karnataka, Krishna River levels rose dramatically due to inflow from Maharashtra. Officials released 52,000 cusecs of water from Basavasagar Dam by opening 14 sluice gates. The dam held 28.20 TMC feet of water against its capacity of 33.33 TMC feet at the time of reporting.

Agricultural Impact

The cascading water from the dam created a visual spectacle but raised concerns downstream. Farmers reported extensive crop damage across affected regions due to the rains. Municipal authorities have deployed emergency teams in vulnerable zones; however, citizens demand long-term solutions like desilting drains and constructing effective rainwater channels.