Hassan
Torrential rains over the past three days have severely disrupted life in Sakleshpur, Alur, and Belur taluks. In Sakleshpur, continuous rainfall led to numerous landslides and cracks along National Highway 75, impacting road connectivity. Approximately 22 cm of rain was recorded from 6 am to 6 pm, causing hillsides to collapse near Shiradighat.
The Bangalore-Mangalore National Highway, especially the four-lane section from Ballupet to Heggade, and other under-construction areas, suffered extensive damage with over ten collapses. Homes were hit by fallen trees, and essential services faced disruptions due to power outages.
Several areas including Kollahalli, Ratemane, Ballupete, Sakaleshpur Bypass, Thotadagadde, Anemahal, Dhogagal, Kapalli, Kesaganahalli, and Doddappale route witnessed landslides, with one particularly significant collapse near Doddappale involving vehicles narrowly escaping harm. Local residents were instrumental in rescuing drivers and vehicles.
The heavy rains also raised concerns about water stagnation in the Hemavati river across the taluk. District authorities have directed the deputy divisional officer of Sakleshpur to arrange for the rehabilitation of affected residents. Additionally, the district in-charge Minister has instructed officials from the forest and public works departments to visit the affected areas personally and resolve emerging issues.
In neighboring Mudigere taluk, the continuous downpour has caused the Hemavati river to overflow, inundating low-lying areas throughout the district.