Mangaluru: A massive tree and an electricity pole came crashing down onto a garage near Kottara Chowki during heavy rain and strong winds in the early hours of Thursday, damaging three four-wheelers and causing extensive damage to the building. Fortunately, no casualties were reported in the incident.
The incident occurred at around 2.15 am when strong winds lashed the area amid heavy rainfall. The tree reportedly fell onto the garage along with an electricity pole, causing significant damage to the structure and the vehicles parked inside.
The watchman’s room, located on the upper portion of the garage, was also damaged in the incident.
Three vehicles damaged
The impact of the falling tree and electricity pole damaged three four-wheelers parked inside the garage. The building owners estimated the combined loss caused to the building and vehicles at around Rs 4 lakh to Rs 5 lakh.
The incident highlighted the risks posed by heavy rain and strong winds, particularly during the monsoon when trees and utility infrastructure can become vulnerable.
Despite the extent of the damage, there were no reports of injuries or casualties. The absence of people in the affected areas at the time of the incident helped avert a potentially serious tragedy.
The garage suffered structural damage, while the parked vehicles were also affected by the falling tree and pole.
Power supply disconnected as precaution
Following the damage to the electricity pole, officials from MESCOM visited the spot and assessed the situation.
As a precautionary measure, the power supply to the affected area was disconnected to prevent any electrical accidents and to allow officials to safely carry out restoration work.
The damaged pole was subsequently removed, and MESCOM personnel installed a new electricity pole. After completing the necessary work and ensuring that the situation was safe, the power supply to local residents was restored.
The prompt restoration work helped minimise the duration of the power disruption in the locality.
Heavy winds trigger damage
The incident occurred during a spell of heavy rain and strong winds in Mangaluru. Such weather conditions can cause trees to fall and damage buildings, vehicles and electricity infrastructure.
Residents in areas vulnerable to falling trees and damaged power lines are often advised to remain cautious during periods of intense rainfall and strong winds. Vehicles parked beneath large or ageing trees may also be exposed to the risk of damage during severe weather.
The Kottara Chowki incident caused substantial property damage, but the absence of casualties came as a major relief to the building owners and local residents.
With the fallen tree and damaged electricity infrastructure attended to and a new pole installed, normal power supply was restored to the area. The incident, however, serves as another reminder of the potential damage that heavy monsoon rain and strong winds can cause to property and public infrastructure.