PTI, BENGALURU: Rescue and relief operations in rain-ravaged Karnataka’s Kodagu were intensified today, as the situation in the district bordering Kerala came “under control” after leaving a huge trail of destruction which has claimed at least 12 lives and rendered hundreds homeless.
The administration cancelled hotel bookings made by tourists in the scenic hilly district nestled on the hills of the Western Ghats till the end of this month as it tottered under torrential rains that caused floods and landslides. The administration has cancelled hotel bookings made by tourists in the scenic hilly district till the end of this month.
Karnataka Chief Minister H D Kumaraswamy said the situation was “under control” and assured the people battered by floods and landslips of a “new life” with fair rehabilitation. As the rains subsided since this afternoon, government machinery was now focusing on relief and rehabilitation work a almost all those who were stranded have been rescued, he said.
The chief minister also said action has been initiatedto distribute an interim relief of Rs 3,800 per family of distressed people sheltered in relief centres. Now situation is totally under control, our officers
are doing their best. We have taken things very seriously, without rest our people are on the job,” Kumaraswamy told reporters here.
Calling it the “biggest disaster” that Kodagu has seen inrecent times, he appealed to the affected people not to worryas the government was with them. “Protecting your (affected people) interest is the responsibility of the government, we will try to build a new life for you,” he said.
Asked about the number of people still to be rescued, the chief minister said almost every one has been rescued. “…if we still get any information or call for rescue, teams are stationed there. As of now the information with the government is everyone has been rescued,” he said. With all major roads leading to Kodagu being blocked, a massive rescue operation had been on for the last couple of days to rescue those stranded in the hilly terrains of the district.
