Rivers swell in heavy rains, Holiday declared for schools in Belthangady taluk

Belthangady: Heavy rains have caused the Netravati and Mrutyunjaya rivers to overflow since last night, flooding low-lying areas and blocking roads with fallen trees in Charmadi Ghat.

Belthangady Tehsildar Prithvi Sanikam told Udayavani that a holiday has been declared for primary and high schools in Belthangadi taluk today (Tuesday) as a safety measure.

However, The holiday declaration came late as many teachers and students in English medium schools were already on their way to school, causing further issues.

Due to the heavy rains and winds, trees have fallen, blocking roads. The public is upset with the department for not clearing these dangerous trees before the onset of the rainy season. Many people are angry at the department for being irresponsible.

Plantations near the rivers are flooded, and water has entered many fields. Coastal and rural government schools have been given a holiday. With the water levels rising, there is a high chance of more flooding.

The Netravati and Mrutyunjaya rivers have merged in front of the Pajiradka Sri Sadashiveshwara temple near Dharmasthala due to the rising water levels.