Karnataka Battens Down: Schools Closed, Ministers Survey Flood-Hit Regions as Heavy Rains Lash State

Heavy rains continue to wreak havoc across Karnataka, forcing the closure of schools and prompting state ministers to personally assess the damage in flood-affected districts. Bengaluru, in particular, experienced a relentless downpour for several hours on Thursday morning, leading to widespread waterlogging and significant traffic disruptions.

In response to the escalating situation, the district administration in Udupi declared a holiday for all schools and pre-university colleges on Friday, October 25, due to persistent heavy rainfall.

Similarly, schools and colleges in Mangaluru taluk, Dakshina Kannada (DK) district, also extended their rain holidays for Friday. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a red alert for DK, Udupi, and Uttara Kannada districts, forecasting extremely heavy rainfall (above 204.4 mm) for Friday.

Revenue Minister Krishna Byre Gowda visited rain-affected areas in Bengaluru, including Jayanagar, to inspect the situation and interact with residents.

Following the inspections, he held a crucial meeting with officials to discuss relief measures and long-term solutions for the city's drainage issues. "Bengaluru is facing very heavy rainfall, causing difficulties for citizens. I've instructed officials to take immediate action to mitigate the problems and ensure relief for affected areas," the minister stated.

Meanwhile, Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao visited several flood-hit areas in Mysuru district to oversee rescue and relief operations.

He also met with displaced families at relief camps, assuring them of the government's full support. "The safety and well-being of our citizens are paramount. We are deploying all necessary resources to assist those impacted by the floods and provide them with essential aid," Minister Gundu Rao affirmed.

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has convened an urgent meeting with district commissioners and senior officials to review the flood situation across the state.

He has instructed all district administrations to remain on high alert and take proactive measures to prevent further loss of life and property. The CM emphasized the need for swift coordination between various departments to ensure effective disaster response and rehabilitation efforts.

The continuous rainfall has led to several rivers overflowing their banks, submerging agricultural lands and disrupting essential services in many rural parts of the state.

Authorities are urging residents in low-lying areas to exercise extreme caution and cooperate with local officials during evacuation procedures. Relief teams are working round the clock to clear blocked roads, restore power supply, and distribute essential supplies to isolated communities as the state grapples with nature's fury.