Highway Closure and Tragedy Amid Landslide Chaos in Karnataka

Dakshina Kannada SP announces closure of National Highway 275 due to landslide threats. Restrictions from July 18 to 22, 8:00 PM to 6:00 AM. Alternate route advised for commuters. In Uttara Kannada, a massive landslide caused four deaths and three missing persons near Shirur village on NH 66.

The Superintendent of Police (SP) for Dakshina Kannada district has announced the closure of National Highway 275 between Sampaje and Madikeri from July 18 to July 22, every day from 8:00 PM to 6:00 AM, citing potential landslides and rock falls. Emergency and disaster-related vehicles are exempt from this restriction.

Commuters, particularly those traveling to Mysuru, Bengaluru, and other destinations via Dakshina Kannada, are urged to take the alternative route through Charmadi Ghat Kotigehara. The district administration emphasizes that these precautionary measures aim to ensure traveler safety and prevent potential accidents.

In a related incident, heavy rains triggered a devastating landslide near Shirur village in Ankola Taluk on National Highway 66, resulting in four fatalities and three missing persons. Uttara Kannada Deputy Commissioner Lakshmi Priya reported that among the seven affected individuals, four were family members.

"The landslide occurred on the opposite side of the river, impacting a tea stall with five family members and gas tankers, leaving one driver unaccounted for," said Deputy Commissioner Priya. Coastal Karnataka continues to grapple with the aftermath of these natural calamities.

(With inputs from agencies.)