Puttur, Sullia, and Subrahmanya are considered hotspots for lightning strikes, with these areas witnessing several fatalities due to lightning. To mitigate the risk, the district administration has decided to launch a pilot project to install lightning arresters. These devices will cover a distance of 500 meters to 1.5 km. The Kukke Subrahmanya Temple has already installed lightning arresters within its compound to prevent any lightning-related mishaps, Rao told the media in Mangaluru after chairing a review meeting on Monday.
Crackdown on Illegal Extraction: Rao also addressed the issue of illegal extraction of laterite soil in the district. Following a complaint from Karopady, officials from Mines and Geology have been directed to take strict action against those involved in illegal activities. The district administration and police will provide protection to officials enforcing these measures. The Deputy Director of Mines and Geology will be held accountable if illegal extraction continues. Additionally, officials have been tasked with curbing illegal sand extraction from CRZ and non-CRZ areas despite CCTV monitoring.
Fireworks Safety Compliance: Fireworks manufacturing units have been instructed to adhere strictly to safety guidelines to prevent mishaps. Fire service personnel will issue No Objection Certificates (NoCs) only after ensuring compliance with these guidelines.
Disaster Preparedness: Rao emphasized the importance of disaster preparedness, instructing the district administration and related departments to take precautionary measures against natural disasters. Disaster management teams in the taluks have been asked to conduct mock drills to assess their readiness. Officials are also to check the condition of emergency equipment such as inflatable boats, cutting machines, generators, and life jackets. Deputy Commissioner Mullai Muhilan M P assured that there are sufficient funds, with Rs 17.81 crore available in the District Disaster Relief Fund and Rs 4.36 crore in the Taluk Disaster Relief Fund.