Rains have claimed 38 lives in Karnataka since June 1

Heavy rains in different parts of the State have left a trail of destruction and claimed 38 lives and caused injuries to 35 people since June 1.

Heavy rains in different parts of the State have left a trail of destruction and claimed 38 lives and caused injuries to 35 people since June 1.

Speaking to presspersons after holding a videoconference with deputy commissioners and chief executive officers of zilla panchayats on the rain situation, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah directed authorities to take precautionary measures to prevent loss of life. Compensation of ₹5 lakh had been given to the family of deceased persons, he said. 

He said standing crops on 541.39 hectares had been affected due to waterlogging.  As many as 57 houses had been completely damaged, 208 severely damaged, and 2,682 houses partially damaged. As many as 105 head of cattle had died in the rain fury, he said. 

The rains had also affected public infrastructure, damaging 2,109 km of road, 189 bridges, 889 school buildings, and 269 anganwadis. Power infrastructure too had been badly hit, with 11,995 electricity poles, 894 transformers, and 215 km of power lines damaged, the Chief Minister said. 

Pointing out that the monsoon, which had remained deficient in June had started gaining momentum in July, Mr. Siddaramaiah said since June 1 four districts had reported excess rainfall while 21 districts had received normal cumulative rainfall. Six districts had deficient rainfall. 

More than 80% of the targeted area had been sown so far, he said and noted that he had instructed Agriculture Department officials to ensure that there was no shortage of seeds for sowing and fertilizer.

Pointing out that the Met department had indicated that there would be heavy rainfall for one more week, the Chief Minister said the number of districts and taluks facing rainfall deficiency was expected to further reduce.