Due to heavy rainfall in Maharashtra, the Krishna, Dudganga, Vedaganga, and Ghataprabha rivers in Belgaum district are swollen, causing hardship for riverside residents. The Ghataprabha river flood has submerged the Lolasura Bridge on the Sankeshwar-Dharwad State Highway near Gokak Nagar, leading to its closure. Fast-flowing river water has necessitated the barricading and securing of both sides of the bridge as a precautionary measure.
On Friday, floods submerged 6 connecting bridges in Belgaum district, adding to a total of 36 bridges affected by the rising waters. Concerns about flooding have escalated among 232 villages along the riverbanks. The district recorded a record rainfall of 25 mm in the last 24 hours. The district administration has identified 427 side care centers, with five centers already operational, providing shelter to over 200 people.
The Belgaum district administration is prepared to manage the flood situation, having identified 427 locations for care centers. Efforts are underway to address any shortcomings in these centers and ensure quality food for the victims. Starting today, blankets will be provided at the care centers to enhance comfort for those sheltered there. District Collector Mohammad Roshan mentioned ongoing coordination with officials from the Narayanpur reservoir, while highlighting that two districts in Maharashtra are under a red alert.
Approximately 36 bridges in the district are submerged. Both sides of the flooded bridge have been secured with barricades. Our personnel are tirelessly working despite adverse weather conditions. Currently, only one road connects Maharashtra, and there are concerns about possible inundation from the Vedaganga river. District Superintendent of Police Bhima Shankar Guleda urged the public to heed the guidance provided by the police.
The mutton market and old cow town in Gokak city, along with Kumbara Galli, are submerged due to flooding. Shop owners are using boats and vehicles to relocate their goods to safer locations. The Ghataprabha river is currently experiencing an inflow rate of 80,000 cusecs.
Amid the flood situation along the banks of the Krishna River, people in Kagavada taluk are using hand-built boats to evacuate. They are transporting bikes and buffaloes in these boats to safety, as the river continues to overflow, posing a risk of people falling into the water.
The Hiranyakesi river has inundated the Shankarlinga temple in Sankeshwar town, Hukkeri taluk. Temple priests conducted rituals directly in the river water. Additionally, over 40 houses surrounding the temple were flooded, causing widespread disruption.
