Karnataka is on high alert after heavy rain lashed several parts of the state, triggering a potential flood threat in low-lying regions. The continuous downpour has caused the Krishna River and its tributaries to swell, raising concerns of overflow and disruption to normal life in northern and coastal districts.
Torrential Rains Wreak Havoc
Over the past few days, districts including Belagavi, Bagalkot, Raichur, Kalaburagi, and Yadgir have reported intense rainfall. The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued orange and yellow alerts for multiple regions, warning residents to stay cautious.
Reports suggest that several rural pockets are already waterlogged, with farmlands submerged and road connectivity cut off in interior areas. In Belagavi, one of the worst-hit regions, the rainfall has caused the Krishna River to flow dangerously close to the warning level, sparking fears of floods similar to those witnessed in previous years.
Krishna River Swells, Dams Under Watch
The Krishna River basin, which runs through Maharashtra and Karnataka, has been receiving heavy inflows due to rains in the catchment areas of both states. Authorities have stepped up monitoring of major dams such as Almatti, Narayanpur, and Hidkal, which are witnessing rising water levels. Controlled releases from these reservoirs are expected to be carried out if rainfall persists, to prevent dam overflow.
Officials have already alerted villagers living along riverbanks to move to safer zones in case of emergency evacuations. “Our teams are prepared for rescue operations. People in vulnerable areas are being asked to remain alert and follow government advisories,” said a senior official from the Karnataka State Disaster Management Authority (KSDMA).
Impact on Daily Life
The rains have disrupted transport, agriculture, and essential services in many districts:
- Road blockages due to overflowing drains and waterlogging have left vehicles stranded.
- Schools and colleges in some taluks have been temporarily shut as a precautionary measure.
- Farmers in low-lying areas have reported crop damage, particularly to sugarcane, maize, and paddy fields.
- Power outages have been reported in parts of North Karnataka, adding to public woes.
Meanwhile, in coastal Karnataka, including Udupi and Dakshina Kannada, rough seas and heavy rainfall have forced fishermen to stay ashore, further impacting livelihoods.
Government Response and Relief Measures
The Karnataka government has instructed district administrations to stay on high alert. Relief camps are being prepared in flood-prone areas, with arrangements for food, shelter, and medical care. National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) teams have been kept on standby.
Chief Minister’s Office has assured that compensation will be provided to affected farmers once the extent of crop loss is assessed. “Our priority is to ensure no lives are lost and that people are shifted to safer locations on time,” the CM said in a briefing.
A Recurring Challenge
Floods caused by heavy rainfall in the Krishna basin are not new to Karnataka. Over the past decade, the state has faced multiple instances of devastating floods, especially in Belagavi and Bagalkot districts, resulting in loss of lives, displacement, and large-scale agricultural damage. Experts argue that better river management, improved drainage systems, and early-warning mechanisms are crucial to reducing the impact of such annual weather extremes.
As rains continue to lash northern and coastal Karnataka, the situation remains tense with the Krishna River swelling steadily. While the government has ramped up preparedness and relief measures, residents of low-lying areas are bracing themselves for possible evacuations. The coming days will be critical in determining whether Karnataka faces yet another full-scale flood crisis or manages to avert major damage through timely interventions.
