In a recent video conference meeting, Nitesh Patil, the Deputy Commissioner of Belagavi district, assured that authorities are well-equipped to manage any potential rise in water levels in the future. Addressing concerns about the region’s flood preparedness, Patil emphasized that currently, there is no immediate risk of floods in Belagavi district.
With the inflow into the Krishna river course measured at approximately one lakh cusecs, there is currently no cause for concern regarding potential floods. Deputy Commissioner Nitesh Patil affirmed that the current water level is not considered significant enough to pose a threat. Nevertheless, authorities remain vigilant and ready to tackle any escalation in water levels that may occur in the future.
Addressing officers and Ministers via a video conference, Deputy Commissioner Nitesh Patil announced that the district administration has provided compensation to the family of a person who tragically lost their life in a wall collapse incident in Bailhongal.
In addition to this, 102 houses have been affected, with five houses being completely damaged. Following the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) guidelines, all affected homeowners have been duly compensated with ₹1.2 lakh each.
Amidst the current situation where 30 low-lying bridges are submerged, commuters have found alternative routes to navigate. Deputy Commissioner Nitesh Patil mentioned that the Karnataka Rural Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited is actively working on constructing new bridges to replace the older ones, enhancing their resilience to floods.
To ensure the safety of families residing near the banks of the Doodhganga and the Veda Ganga, some have been relocated to prevent potential flood-related hazards. As a support measure, two gruel centers have been set up in the affected areas.
Following the meeting, the Deputy Commissioner instructed officials to prioritize the repair of school and Anganwadi buildings that have been damaged either by rain or other causes.
Emphasizing on safety, he urged the Education Department officials to ensure that schools in the district do not operate in dilapidated buildings. Moreover, considering public safety as a top priority, the district administration has imposed a ban on forest treks and visits to waterfalls.
In the event of flooding or any other emergencies, Superintendent of Police Sanjiv Patil urged the general public to reach out to the emergency helpline 112.
The meeting witnessed the presence of esteemed officials, including Police Commissioner S.N. Sidramappa, Zilla Panchayat Chief Executive Officer Harshal Boyer, City Corporation Commissioner Ashok Dudagunti, Probationary Officer Shubham Shukla, Additional Deputy Commissioner Vijaykumar Honkeri, and Assistant Commissioners Rajesh Nayak and Prabhavati Fakirpur, representing various departments.