In response to the devastating Wayanad landslides that claimed over 300 lives, the Karnataka government has taken decisive steps to safeguard residents in Kodagu district. Nearly 300 families have been relocated, and 10 relief centers have been established to assist those affected.
Kodagu, known for its coffee plantations, was struck by severe floods and landslides in 2018 and 2019. Following these events, the government commissioned surveys by geologists and experts to identify landslide-prone areas. The Geological Survey of India reported 104 such areas in Kodagu, endangering approximately 2,995 families. Notably, Madikeri and Kushalnagar taluks each have 40 landslide-prone areas, while Virajpet-Ponnampet has 13, and Somwarpet has 11.
With Kodagu experiencing 24% more rainfall than usual and forecasts predicting further heavy rains in August, the government has intensified its evacuation efforts. Deputy Commissioner Venkat Raja emphasized the importance of early evacuations as directed by Revenue Minister Krishna Byre Gowda. The district administration is closely monitoring the situation, having identified sensitive and hyper-sensitive areas based on past calamities.
Currently, 10 care centers are operational, with plans to establish up to 95 more if necessary. These centers are strategically located to provide immediate relief while ensuring the safety of displaced families.