The Kodagu district administration is bracing itself for the onset of monsoon and will initiate measures to tackle floods that are a regular feature during the rainy season.
At a preliminary meeting recently, Deputy Commissioner P.I. Srividya said that part of Kodagu district was already receiving moderate to heavy rain in the last couple of days and the onset of the southwest monsoon was likely by the first week of June. She directed officials to take adequate measures to mitigate the impact of floods which were expected given the topography of the region.
Temporary relief camps
Areas prone to flooding like Bhagamandala, Napoklu, Balamuri, Kardigodu, Dubare, were also prone to landslips and hence officials were directed to be on their toes for any rescue operations besides prompt intervention to minimise loss of life and property. The Deputy Commissioner said schools and community halls should be converted to temporary relief camps in the event of flooding and the officials concerned should brace up for any eventuality.
The attention of the traffic police, Chamundeshwari Electricity Supply Corporation (CESC), Forest Department, etc., was drawn to the possibility of road blockades owing to falling trees and electricity poles. Ms. Srividya called for coordination among the departments to tackle the situation.
Deployment of home guards and expert swimmers, roping in of fire services personnel for rescue operations, and deployment of motorised boats for speedy evacuation to get into action mode at a short notice was also stipulated.
Water-related diseases
The local town municipal council was directed to be prepared to house people evacuated from low lying areas in the eventuality of a flood. Likewise, the Health Department has been asked to stock up on adequate medicines to deal with the outbreak of any water-related diseases during monsoon.
Calling for regular contact and coordination with the Meteorological Department, Ms. Srividya has called for regular communication with them on weather and rain forecast.
The local bodies were also instructed to be equipped with rescue and relief material.
24x7 helpline
The district administration has set up a 24x7 helpline (08272-221077) to receive distress calls from the public while power outage issues could be informed on the CESC helpline number 1912. The officials have been directed to assess rain damage as and when reported and ensure that compensation was also distributed within a week.
