Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru

Mangaluru, May 25: With the onset of the monsoon along the coastal belt, torrential rains since the early hours of Sunday have triggered a series of weather-related incidents in and around Mangaluru, including artificial flooding in Pumpwell, tree falls in Barebail and Kadaba, and property damage in several areas.

Artificial flooding leaves commuters stranded in Pumpwell

Following a relentless downpour since Sunday morning, a severe case of artificial flooding has been reported beneath the Pumpwell flyover bridge. The service road connecting from the Tokkottu side has witnessed significant water accumulation, leading to massive traffic disruptions.

Due to the lack of an adequate drainage system to channel water flowing in from all four directions, rainwater has pooled under the bridge, creating an artificial flood scenario. Two-wheeler riders and pedestrians found it especially difficult to navigate the submerged stretch, resulting in widespread inconvenience.

Motorists were forced to drive through waterlogged roads, while pedestrians struggled to wade through knee-deep water. “We couldn’t see the road at all. It was like driving through a river,” said a two-wheeler rider who had to push his bike through the flooded stretch. The situation led to traffic snarls, with many vehicles stalling mid-way.

Huge tree uprooted in Barebail, damages two houses

In a separate incident, a massive tree was uprooted in Barebail during the night of May 24, causing extensive damage to two houses. The tree fell directly across the roof of one house, forcing its residents to evacuate in fear of a potential collapse. They sought shelter at a neighbouring home for safety.

Officials from the Village Administration (VA) and other local authorities visited the site on Sunday morning and assured affected residents that all necessary measures would be undertaken. Meanwhile, municipal workers began the clearance of the fallen branches from the damaged property.

One of the homes reportedly sustained severe structural damage, although no injuries were reported from the site. Authorities are assessing the full extent of the damage and are expected to provide assistance to the affected families.

Tree falls on car in Kadaba taluk; no casualties

Yet another incident was reported from Nujibaltila village in Kadaba Taluk, where a tree collapsed on a moving car. Fortunately, there was no loss of life, and all occupants managed to escape with minor injuries.

The injured were promptly admitted to a nearby hospital, and local sources confirmed that the condition of the victims is stable. The tree fall has been attributed to weakened roots due to the saturated soil following heavy rains.

The series of incidents underscore the urgent need for improved civic preparedness and drainage infrastructure in Mangaluru, especially during the monsoon season. As rainfall is expected to continue in the coming days, authorities have urged residents to remain cautious and report any weather-related emergencies.