Sakaleshpur : Widespread disruption and destruction were reported in Sakaleshpur taluk on Wednesday as heavy rains caused landslides, uprooted trees, and washed away bridges. The relentless rain, which recorded an average of 22 cm from 6 am to 6 pm, threw life out of gear, with power cuts adding to the misery.
The four-lane Bangalore-Mangalore National Highway was severely affected, with over 10 sites of the under-construction highway collapsing between Ballupet to Heggadde. Landslides occurred at multiple points, including Kollahalli, Ratemane, and Sakaleshpur Bypass, with a massive hill collapse near Doddathappale, barely missing vehicles.
The collapse of a gabion wall built for the four-lane highway and land subsidence have blocked vehicular traffic in the area. A short bridge near Maranahalli was washed away, leaving Bharat’s house inaccessible.
The continuous rains in Sakaleshpur and neighboring Mudigere taluk have caused the Hemavati River to swell, inundating low-lying areas and paddy fields. Water has entered homes and businesses, including those on Azad Road and Mallamma Street.
Small streams in various villages, including Janakere, Aiguru, and Halebelur, have overflowed, blocking traffic and causing disruptions. The barricade constructed for the four-lane Bangalore-Mangalore National Highway near Dhowgal has also collapsed.