Nayana J C
Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru
Mangaluru, May 20: As the monsoon approaches coastal Karnataka, residents in several parts of Mangaluru are urging authorities to take immediate preventive measures in flood and landslide-prone areas to avoid a repeat of the disruptions witnessed in previous years.
Every year, heavy rainfall causes severe waterlogging in low-lying parts of the city, affecting traffic and daily life. In the hilly areas of Dakshina Kannada, landslides and soil erosion have also posed serious threats to homes, roads, and public safety. Last year, continuous rain led to flooding, road blockages, and property damage in several localities.
One such vulnerable spot is the Kettikal area near Vamanjoor along National Highway 169, where fresh concerns have emerged over possible landslides during the upcoming rainy season. As part of the highway expansion project, the hillside in Kettikal was cut for road development, and the area witnessed landslides during the last two monsoon seasons.
Local residents said that nearly 100 metres ahead of a school in the area, a portion of the hill had collapsed during last year’s rains. Large boulders and mud had rolled onto the road, disrupting traffic and creating danger for motorists. Though the fallen soil was cleared from the road, permanent repair work at the landslide site has not yet been fully completed.
At present, cracks have appeared on the upper part of the hill, and several trees are seen leaning dangerously, raising fears of another landslide if heavy rains intensify. Residents noted that earlier soil-nailing work had also failed to prevent the slope from collapsing.
Following expert recommendations, authorities have started constructing a gabion wall along a section of the hill to strengthen the slope. Stones packed in iron mesh are being placed across the vulnerable area to prevent soil erosion. However, locals fear that the work may not be completed before the peak monsoon period.
According to district-level preparedness reviews, the administration has identified 92 flood-prone areas and 88 landslide-prone areas across Dakshina Kannada. Officials have reportedly been instructed to inspect previously affected locations and carry out preventive measures such as drain desilting, slope protection, and emergency response planning.
Residents living near hill slopes, streams, and low-lying areas have appealed for swift action, stating that preventive work must be completed before heavy rainfall begins to ensure the safety of people, vehicles, and property during the monsoon season.