MANGALURU: Vehicular movement between Mangaluru and Bengaluru has been severely disrupted after a massive landslide struck National Highway-75 at Mannagundi in Kaukradi village of Kadaba taluk, Dakshina Kannada. The landslide, triggered by relentless rainfall over the past few days, brought traffic to a complete standstill.
Authorities have swiftly deployed personnel and heavy machinery to clear the debris. Police officials stated that efforts are underway to restore traffic by Thursday afternoon, and motorists have been urged to use alternative routes in the meantime.
Meanwhile, continuous downpours across Dakshina Kannada have led to a surge in water levels in the Netravathi River and its tributaries, submerging several low-lying areas. In response, the district administration has declared a holiday for schools and pre-university colleges on Thursday as a precautionary measure.
In Mangaluru city, another significant landslide occurred near the Circuit House, blocking one side of the road connecting NH-66 to the KSRTC Bus Stand in Bejai. Authorities have barricaded the stretch. Local residents expressed frustration, blaming civic inaction despite earlier warnings and minor landslides in the area. Sandbags had been placed as a temporary safety measure after a previous incident. This time, a portion of the Circuit House premises gave way, but fortunately, the landslide occurred at night and no casualties were reported.