Heavy rains wreak havoc in Karnataka, landslides disrupt travel in several areas

Team Udayavani, Jul 16, 2024, 3:05 PM IST

A noticeable crack appeared on the Mani-Mysore National Highway 275 near Jodupala on Tuesday, July 16, raising fears of a potential landslide on the roadside hill.

The continuous heavy rains in the Kodagu region over the past few days have caused a crack to develop on one side of the highway near the second Monnangeri area. Authorities have advised motorists to exercise caution. Travelers are urging the concerned department to take appropriate action promptly.

Approximately six years ago, a similar situation occurred in this area, where a landslide and subsequent flooding led to a complete shutdown of the highway, resulting in casualties.

In another incident, a retaining wall collapsed on National Highway 75, connecting Bangalore and Mangalore, causing a complete closure of one side of the concrete road. Traffic is currently being managed on a single lane.

In the Ratemane area of Gulgalale village, a 40-foot-high retaining wall was washed away due to heavy rainfall at night, causing cracks in the concrete road. Consequently, one path of the road is closed, and traffic is being managed on a single lane. The monsoon-induced landslides continue in the taluk, with a significant landslide near Bhaskeri on National Highway 69, disrupting highway traffic.

On the Honnavar-Bangalore highway, a massive landslide involving rocks and soil caused a complete halt in traffic. The incident, which occurred at midnight, left hundreds of vehicles stranded on the road. The continuous landslide activity increased the anxiety among the motorists.

Honnavar police visited the site, assessed the situation, and installed barricades to facilitate one-way traffic after partial debris removal. The road has now been cleared of rocks and soil, and traffic flow has been restored.

Authorities are urged to remain vigilant and respond swiftly to ensure the safety of travelers and to prevent further disruptions. The public is advised to stay updated on weather reports and road conditions during the monsoon season.