In Karnataka, a notable absence of rainfall has resulted in water scarcity across the state. Despite this, the Ghataprabha River in the Belagavi district is experiencing flooding, causing waterlogged streets.
The overflow of water from the Raja Lakhamagouda Dam, also known as the Hidkal Dam, situated on the Ghataprabha River, is the reason behind this unusual occurrence. The dam, located in Hidkal village within the Belagavi district, plays a crucial role in the region’s water management.
The flooding is due to the deliberate release of water from the Hidkal reservoir to cater to the drinking water needs of Belgaum and Bagalkot districts. Consequently, the Sunadholi bridge, connecting Sunadholi-Moodlagi in Mudalagi taluk, has been submerged, posing a challenge for commuters. The absence of protective railings or walls on the bridge exacerbates the situation.
Traffic on the bridge has been halted due to the water flow from the installed gates on the Ghataprabha river bridge near Sunadholi. This disruption primarily affects two-wheeler commuters as the bridge’s narrowness makes it unsuitable for four-wheelers. Over the weekend, images of submerged bikes and bicycles went viral, prompting authorities to restrict traffic until water levels normalize.
The Ghataprabha river basin spans 8,829 square kilometers across Maharashtra and Karnataka and holds significance as a right-bank tributary of the Krishna River. It traverses 283 kilometers eastward before merging with the Krishna River at Chikksangam.
