Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru
Mangaluru, Jun 11: Deputy commissioner (DC) of Dakshina Kannada, Mullai Muhilan, has directed all gram panchayats and urban local bodies in the district to identify and report areas within their jurisdiction that are prone to natural calamities within the next two days.
Presiding over the meeting of the District Disaster Management Authority held at the DC’s office on Tuesday, he stressed the importance of pre-identifying regions that are vulnerable to landslides, flooding, and other disasters caused by heavy rainfall. He instructed that during red lert periods, residents in such areas must be relocated, and they must also be formally notified about the potential risks.
He issued a stern warning that if an untoward incident occurs in an unmarked vulnerable area, the officials of the concerned local body will be held responsible.
"Preventing loss of life during natural disasters is our top priority," the DC asserted, emphasizing that the safety of residents, particularly those living in densely populated and residential areas, is paramount. He directed all local bodies to visit every part of their jurisdiction and conduct thorough preliminary inspections.
DC Muhilan also pointed out that diverting the natural flow of water can itself lead to disasters and should be avoided.
Expressing dissatisfaction over the drainage of rainwater from Mangaluru airport affecting nearby residential areas, he instructed airport authorities to submit a report by Wednesday afternoon. Failure to do so, he warned, will result in action under the Disaster Management Act.
The DC also expressed strong displeasure over the delay in implementing landslide prevention works at Kettikal. In response, officials from the National Highway Authority of India informed the meeting that central approval for the work has been obtained and it will begin shortly.
Zilla panchayat CEO Dr Anand K, superintendent of police Dr Arun K, deputy conservator of forests Antony Mariyappa, and DCP Siddarth Goyal were present during the meeting.