Udupi: The recent floods in Karkala and Hebri have left behind a trail of destruction, altering the lives of residents irreversibly. The once-protective hills and streams, previously sources of sustenance, now stand as haunting reminders of the disaster. The rooftops, previously sloped for shelter, are now submerged in water and mud, while agriculture, the backbone of livelihoods, lies in ruin.

Mudradi Gram, Balladi, and Kabbinale villages have been particularly hard hit. Inhabited areas have been devastated, with losses including cattle, property, and severely damaged household items. Residents, who were trying to rebuild their lives, now face the grim task of salvaging damaged belongings and clearing mud from their homes.

One farmer reported the loss of 5,000 coconuts, rubber sap, two water pumps, and agricultural equipment to the floods. The Varanga-Balladi road has been cut off, and several internal roads have been damaged. In Kantarabailu Eco, livestock has vanished. Over 200 acres of paddy fields near Adka, Ishwara Nagar, Hansanbettu, Gummigundi, and Waranga village have been destroyed.

The floods have forced residents to reflect on the severe consequences of environmental degradation. Many are left wondering what the future holds. Elderly residents, including 75-year-old Suraiya Pujari, are in shock and fear.

In a tragic incident, 85-year-old Chandra Gaudti was swept away by floodwaters and found dead in a river on Monday. Her family had been searching for her since the floods began.

Mudradi Gram Panchayat members and locals stated that this is the first time such a flood has struck the region. Local officials, including Karkala MLA V. Sunil Kumar and Congress leader Muniyalu Udaya Shetty, have visited the affected areas to assess the damage.

Residents reported hearing strange noises in the Kapoli and Balladi areas a month ago, similar to the ones that were heard before the Madikeri floods.

Amid the chaos, acts of bravery have emerged, such as the rescue of the Prabhakar couple, saving lives in this overwhelming disaster.