Heavy rains lash Dharwad, Uttara Kannada, Dakshina Kannada

Due to heavy rains lashing continuously since Wednesday afternoon, the school, colleges at Dharwad, Uttara Kannada, Dakshina Kannada and Udupi districts were declared holiday on Thursday.

Anticipated the continuing the downpour also on Friday, the Meteorological departments of these districts announced 'red alert' to avoid disasters the holidays were announced and people were appealed to avoid going out in case if it’s not an emergency.

Almost entire districts received good rains for which all the low laying areas, nalas, gutters etc are flowing, water level in all the rivers increasing every moment.

Dharwad Deputy Commissioner Divya Prabhu said all the Anganwadis, primary and high schools, PU and degree colleges in Dharwad district were declared holiday for the safety of students. The metrological department has issued the red alert with continuation of rain on Thursday.

Flood situation alerted to the people residing of the catchment areas of Benni Halla and Tuppari Halla which are flowing over since Wednesday evening, DC Divya said, adding that the state weather department on Wednesday evening reported about heavy rains to be continued for the next three days.

Uttara Kannada deputy commissioner Lakshmi Priya K said that the district Weather department and Disasters Management unit anticipated rains till June20 and advised to be alert by following the precautionary measures.

Karwar, Kumata, Honnavar, Ankola and Batkal taluks situated on the coastal area of the Arabian Sea getting continues rains from the onset of June. "All the educational institutions in entire district upto degree level were declared holiday on Thursday for the safety of the students,," DC Lakshmi Priya said, adding the study gap due to sudden holidays would be covered by holding classes on other general holidays.

Dakshina Kannada DC MP Mullai Muhilan appealed not to be near the low lying areas, lakes, sea shore river sides etc. The fishermen too have been instructed against venturing into water. The Tahasildars and other taluk level have been to remain at the headquarters compulsorily and respond rapidly to rain and water related incidents.

Residents and tourists were strictly prevented from being near the beaches, rivers, and waterfalls and were also instructed not to go for photos and videos in these areas.

The district administration has also started an emergency round-the-clock free toll free control room where people can call for rain or any other water related emergencies to 1077 or 0824-2442590.