In Belagavi district, major bridges, including Lolasur in Gokak and Ugar Khurd in Raibag taluk, have been reopened to traffic following a significant drop in water levels. The bridges had been inundated due to heavy rainfall and excess water releases from Maharashtra, affecting 44 bridges across the district.
As the intense rains have eased and water levels in the Krishna River and its tributaries have receded, most of these bridges are now accessible. Bridges in Chikodi sub-division and Kagwad taluka, previously submerged, are also open for vehicular movement. Additionally, roads connecting Ugar Khurd to Kudachi and other key areas have resumed operations.
Despite the progress, the meteorological department has forecasted potential heavy rains due to falling barometric pressure, which could pose a risk of renewed flooding. Local authorities, including Subhash Sampagavi, Assistant Commissioner of Chikodi, are prepared for possible emergencies, given the anticipated weather changes.
In the meantime, religious sites previously submerged, such as the Veerabhadreshwar and Dattatreya temples, have also reopened for devotees. The water levels in major dams, including those on the Krishna River, are currently at half capacity.