CM Hebbalkar Issues Urgent Advisory as Udupi Faces Heavy Rainfall; Anganwadis Closed for Safety

Udupi, Karnataka | May 30, 2025 —
In response to intensifying rainfall across the coastal belt, Karnataka Chief Minister Lakshmi Hebbalkar has directed the Udupi district administration to undertake immediate precautionary measures, especially in vulnerable tourist and shoreline zones. As monsoon currents lash the western coast, local authorities have moved swiftly to prevent potential disasters.

Among the first actions: all Anganwadi centers in Udupi district have been ordered shut by the District Collector as a precautionary holiday, citing safety risks posed by continuous downpours and flash flood possibilities in low-lying areas.

Red Alert Conditions Brewing Along Coast

Over the past 48 hours, Udupi has recorded over 110 mm of rainfall, with neighboring districts like Dakshina Kannada and Uttara Kannada witnessing similar surges. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has kept the district under an orange alert, predicting continued heavy rain, occasional thunder, and gusty winds through the weekend.

The CM’s office, in a press statement issued Thursday morning, emphasized the importance of early intervention.

“Tourist locations, riversides, and seashores are particularly high-risk zones during this period,” said Chief Minister Lakshmi Hebbalkar. “District authorities must coordinate closely with local panchayats and emergency responders to ensure public safety and zero casualties.”

Tourism and Coastal Areas Under Surveillance

The directive comes amid a surge in seasonal tourism to Malpe Beach, St. Mary’s Island, Kaup Lighthouse, and riverbank picnicking zones that remain active during early monsoon months. With strong tides and erosion risks intensifying, the administration is set to deploy additional life guards, issue red flags at swimming zones, and suspend boating activities at all public tourist spots until further notice.

Local police have also been instructed to carry out patrols along riverbanks, warning families and children against venturing into high-flow areas, especially during evenings and early mornings.

Anganwadis Closed: Protecting the Most Vulnerable

The District Collector's order to shut all Anganwadis has been welcomed by education and child welfare groups. The Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) network, which runs pre-schools and nutrition programs for children under 6, is especially vulnerable to climate-related disruptions.

“These centers are often in rural or semi-rural structures that are not equipped to withstand strong rain or wind damage,” said Dr. Prashanthi Rao, a child development expert based in Manipal. “It’s a smart and compassionate move.”

No decision has yet been made on broader school closures in the district, but monitoring is ongoing with a review expected by Friday evening.

Emergency Systems Activated

Following the CM's advisory, the Udupi district disaster management cell has:

• Activated control rooms at taluk offices

• Circulated emergency helpline numbers

• Positioned sandbags and pumping equipment in flood-prone colonies such as Brahmavar, Kundapura, and Karkala

• Instructed panchayat bodies to stock chlorine tablets and dry rations for immediate relief if needed

Fishermen Warned, Rural Roads on Watch

Coastal security authorities and the Fisheries Department have advised fishermen to avoid venturing into the sea until IMD clearance. Many rural roads leading to interior paddy fields have already shown signs of wear and early landslip near Agumbe and Hebri.

State Public Works officials have dispatched engineers to inspect culverts, bridges, and school access roads, especially those built under older specifications vulnerable to waterlogging.

Public Advisory

The Udupi district administration urges residents to:

• Avoid river crossings and beach visits until alerts are withdrawn

• Report flooding or blocked drainage to the taluk control room

• Keep emergency contact numbers handy

• Supervise children closely and avoid open storm drains

• Follow verified updates and avoid sharing unconfirmed alerts on social media

Conclusion: Monsoon’s First Test for Coastal Karnataka

The unfolding situation in Udupi is a crucial early test for Karnataka’s 2025 monsoon disaster readiness strategy. With Chief Minister Hebbalkar taking the lead in ensuring district-level preparedness, the focus now rests on local execution, community cooperation, and real-time response mechanisms.

As the skies remain grey and thunderclouds loom, Udupi’s proactive stance could be the difference between disruption and disaster prevention.

Bengaluru | May 30, 2025 —
As Karnataka grapples with intense pre-monsoon activity, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a red alert for six districts, citing the likelihood of extremely heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds. In response, state authorities have swiftly ordered the closure of schools and educational institutions, prioritizing the safety of students and staff.

The red alert—valid through May 30—covers:

• Dakshina Kannada

• Udupi

• Uttara Kannada

• Chikkamagaluru

• Shivamogga

• Kodagu

Kodagu Leads with Precautionary Closures

One of the worst-hit regions, Kodagu, has experienced continuous downpours over the past 72 hours. The District Administration declared a two-day holiday for Anganwadis, primary schools, high schools, and pre-university colleges on May 29 and 30.

“In view of persistent rain and safety risks from rising rivers and landslides, all educational institutions will remain closed for two days,” said District Collector Venkat Raja in an official order. “We request the public to remain indoors unless travel is essential.”

Multiple taluks in Kodagu—including Madikeri, Somwarpet, and Virajpet—have recorded rainfall exceeding 110 mm in 24 hours, prompting concerns about flash flooding and mudslides.

Weather Forecast: A Stormy Stretch Ahead

According to IMD scientists, the intensified rainfall is being driven by a low-pressure area (LPA) that has developed over the Bay of Bengal. This system has pulled moisture-rich winds toward the Karnataka coast, resulting in widespread cloud formation and convective storms.

• Thunderstorms with lightning and wind speeds of 30–40 km/h are expected in coastal and Malnad districts.

• The rainfall intensity is forecast to peak between May 29 and 30, with localized flooding likely in river basins and low-lying villages.

• Hailstorms are possible in parts of Hassan and Chikkamagaluru, where atmospheric instability is highest.

“The pre-monsoon surge has come early and strong. The red alert signifies not just heavy rain, but severe weather capable of damaging property and endangering lives,” warned Dr. Rekha Shenoy, lead meteorologist at IMD Bengaluru.

Statewide Response and Safety Protocols

The Karnataka Disaster Management Authority (KDMA) has activated control rooms in red-alert districts and deployed emergency teams with:

• Rescue boats

• Portable floodlights

• Evacuation kits

• Medical first responders

Authorities are also monitoring reservoir water levels, particularly the Harangi Dam in Kodagu and Linganamakki Dam in Shivamogga, as continuous inflows may require controlled discharge.

Meanwhile, MESCOM (Mangalore Electricity Supply Company) has urged residents to report downed power lines and avoid water-logged transformers. Emergency contact 1912 remains active across affected zones.

Public Advisory: What You Should Know

The state government and IMD have released the following safety guidance for the public:

• Avoid travel to hilly or forested areas until weather warnings are lifted.

• Do not attempt to cross flooded roads or streams, especially after dusk.

• Store drinking water and dry food supplies in case of power or service disruptions.

• Parents are advised to keep children indoors and monitor weather bulletins.

“Preparedness and timely decision-making can reduce harm. We urge communities to stay alert and follow official advisories,” said Home Minister Dr. G. Parameshwara.

Impact on Tourism and Agriculture

The red alert comes at a time when hill stations like Coorg and Agumbe typically see tourist influxes. Local tourism boards have advised operators to suspend trekking, river rafting, and waterfall visits.

Farmers in Chikkamagaluru and Hassan have reported early crop damage due to intense waterlogging, particularly in coffee and paddy-growing regions. Agricultural officers are surveying damage and preparing compensation reports for state assessment.

Conclusion: Monsoon Arrives with Force

Though the official onset of the southwest monsoon is typically around June 1, this year’s weather behavior points to an early and aggressive arrival. With alerts in place, Karnataka’s proactive closures and field readiness will be vital in minimizing risk and disruption.

As heavy clouds continue to loom, the next 48 hours will test the resilience of both government machinery and communities across the state.

By Anya D’Souza | Coastal Beat Correspondent | June 9, 2025

Gangolli, Karnataka – A day of joy nearly turned fatal for five tourists on Sunday evening when they were caught in strong rip currents off the coast of Gangolli beach in Udupi district. Thanks to the swift and coordinated response of local lifeguards and emergency personnel, what could have ended in tragedy became a story of heroism and teamwork.

The victims—four tech professionals from Bengaluru and one local woman from Goa—were wading into waist-deep waters during the early evening hours when sudden high waves pulled them farther into the sea. According to eyewitness accounts, panic broke out among beachgoers as shouts for help echoed across the shoreline.

Split-Second Decisions Saved Lives

At the center of this high-stakes rescue were two seasoned lifeguards: Pruthviraj Oppanda and Pramod Raj Oppanda, who were on active duty when the incident unfolded around 6:15 p.m.

“We saw them being dragged by the current, and we had to act within seconds,” said Pruthviraj. “The waves were rising, and the undertow was strong—one wrong step and we would have lost them.”

The Oppanda brothers, both trained by Karnataka’s Coastal Security Police initiative, launched themselves into the waves with rescue tubes, while beach supervisor Suresh Koderi coordinated crowd control onshore and directed backup.

Medical Backup Was Ready

Meanwhile, a 24/7 stationed ambulance team, led by Ibrahim Gangolli, had already been alerted. The team swiftly prepped oxygen support, thermal blankets, and saline drips in case of hypothermia or fluid loss.

“Two of the tourists were gasping for breath and disoriented when brought back,” said Ibrahim. “Their pulse was weak but stable. The rapid rescue made all the difference.”

Medical checks were conducted on-site, and though visibly shaken, all five tourists were declared out of danger. None required hospitalization.

Identities of the Rescued

• Rakesh B. (29), Bengaluru – Software developer

• Ankita M. (27), Goa – Freelance writer

• Jeevan S. (32), Bengaluru – Systems analyst

• Arvind K. (30), Bengaluru – Marketing consultant

• Neha R. (26), Bengaluru – Graphic designer

All five were part of two different groups vacationing in the coastal town over the weekend.

Rough Sea Conditions Ignored

According to officials, red flags had been posted at Gangolli beach earlier in the day due to unpredictable currents and a brewing offshore weather system. However, tourists reportedly ignored the warnings, believing the shallows to be safe.

“Despite our clear signage and repeated announcements, many visitors underestimate the sea’s power,” said beach supervisor Koderi. “It takes just seconds to go from knee-deep to catastrophe.”

The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) had issued an advisory on Sunday morning warning of localized high tide surges due to moon phase alignment and weather disturbances near the Arabian Sea.

Lifeguards on the Frontline: A Thankless Job

Karnataka’s lifeguards have saved over 2,500 lives in the last five years, but their role often goes unnoticed until emergencies strike. Gangolli, a quieter stretch compared to Malpe or Gokarna, has seen a surge in tourist activity post-pandemic, yet infrastructure and staff remain stretched.

“There are only three full-time lifeguards on rotation for this stretch of coast,” said Pramod Raj Oppanda. “On weekends, we sometimes monitor over 300 people.”

Locals have called for better tourist education, multilingual signage, and stricter patrolling during peak seasons.

Official Statements & Safety Appeal

Udupi Deputy Commissioner Dr. K. Vidya Kumari praised the team’s response and urged citizens to respect coastal safety protocols.

“This was a narrowly avoided tragedy. We are proud of our lifeguards, and we appeal to tourists—do not test the sea’s limits,” she said in a press briefing.

She added that the district administration would review protocols for tourist beaches, especially during monsoon transition months when wave unpredictability is high.

Conclusion: Remember the Names Behind the Save

As the sun set over Gangolli that evening, cheers replaced panic. The tourists hugged their rescuers, overcome with gratitude. Social media posts of the incident—some filmed by bystanders—have since gone viral, shining a spotlight on the bravery of ordinary heroes.

In a time when vacation mishaps often make headlines for the wrong reasons, this story stands as a testament to vigilance, preparation, and human courage.

Let it also serve as a reminder: the ocean deserves our respect

By Staff Correspondent | Daijiworld | June 12, 2025 | Mangaluru

MANGALURU — In response to relentless heavy rain pounding the coastal belt, the Dakshina Kannada district administration has declared an emergency holiday for all anganwadis, primary, and high schools across the region on Thursday, June 12, citing safety concerns and a red alert issued by meteorological authorities.

The sudden declaration—though expected as rain intensifies—comes as the region continues to battle rising water levels, disrupted transportation, and swelling riverbanks.

Red Alert Issued Across Coastal Karnataka

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a red alert for Dakshina Kannada, signaling the possibility of extremely heavy rainfall exceeding 204.4 mm in 24 hours. The district, already witnessing above-average monsoon activity for early June, is bracing for further downpours, with saturated soil and overflowing streams creating flash flood risks.

Schools and Anganwadis Closed: What Parents Need to Know

The holiday applies to all government, aided, and unaided private schools, as well as anganwadis in the district. Authorities emphasized the closure is precautionary and part of the district’s monsoon disaster preparedness strategy.

In a public advisory issued early Thursday morning, parents were urged to keep children indoors, avoid travel through low-lying areas, and strictly stay away from beaches, rivers, waterfalls, and lakes.

“Children should not be allowed near water bodies or flooded zones under any circumstance. With high winds and landslip-prone areas active, we are appealing for cooperation from the public,” said Dakshina Kannada Deputy Commissioner M.P. Patil during a briefing.

No-Go Zones: Beaches, Riverbanks, Waterfalls

Authorities have prohibited entry to all coastal and water-adjacent zones, including Panambur Beach, Tannirbhavi, Someshwara, and the Nethravathi and Gurupura riverbanks. This includes strict bans on photography or videography at high-risk locations.

“Even for social media content or casual visits, we are urging complete restraint. These areas may look calm momentarily but can turn lethal in minutes,” a senior district disaster officer warned.

Tourists and local residents have been notified through police patrols, digital signage, and WhatsApp community alerts. Barricades are also being erected at key beach entry points.

Emergency Measures and Public Instructions

As per instructions from the District Collector’s Office, the following emergency protocols are now in force:

• 24/7 emergency response control rooms operational at:
  📞 Toll-Free: 1077
  ☎️ Landline: 0824-2442590

• Taluk-level officers have been instructed to remain at headquarters and respond immediately to complaints from residents.

• Tahsildars across taluks—including Mangaluru, Bantwal, Puttur, Belthangady, and Sullia—have been asked to stay in constant contact with field staff, with dedicated nodal officers monitoring each vulnerable zone.

• Fishermen have been warned not to venture into the sea, and coastal surveillance teams are keeping track of any unauthorized boat activity.

Impact on Local Life & Transport

Public transport remains functional but limited. Several rural bus routes were suspended early Thursday due to submerged roads. Waterlogging has been reported in parts of Ullal, Pumpwell, BC Road, and Uppinangady, causing minor traffic disruptions.

Residents living near vulnerable hillocks or low-lying homes are being contacted for voluntary evacuation, especially in Charmadi Ghat and Puttur rural zones, known for frequent landslides during intense rains.

Meanwhile, farming activity in the region’s paddy belts has taken a hit, with fields around Vittal and Moodbidri already saturated and water stagnating in open plots.

A Broader Climate Signal?

This event is part of a larger pattern of increasingly intense early-monsoon rainfall along the Karnataka coast. Experts point to rising sea surface temperatures and erratic monsoon shifts as contributing factors.

“The red alert for Dakshina Kannada this early in June is unusual but not unprecedented. This may become more common due to climate volatility in the Arabian Sea,” notes climatologist Dr. Kavya Prabhu of Mangalore University.

Conclusion: Vigilance, Not Panic

While no major casualties or large-scale damage have been reported so far, officials warn that the next 48 hours are critical.

“We are not calling this a disaster yet—but a red alert is not a casual advisory. We want citizens to stay calm, stay dry, and stay informed,” Deputy Commissioner Patil concluded.

The administration has promised to review weather patterns at 6 AM and 6 PM daily for the next three days. Further holidays will be declared if rainfall intensity persists.

Udupi | June 13, 2025
By , Coastal Affairs Correspondent

In a bold and unprecedented move to ensure coastal security and public welfare, Udupi district administration has implemented a blanket night-time entry ban on all 50 islands under its jurisdiction, effective immediately. The decision, announced by Deputy Commissioner Dr. K. Vidyakumari, aims to clamp down on a rising wave of unlawful nocturnal activity while safeguarding tourists and locals alike.

From 6:00 PM to 6:00 AM, no individual or vessel will be permitted to access any island, regardless of purpose. The order comes in the wake of increasing concerns over unauthorized parties, suspected smuggling activity, and unregulated tourism practices reported across the coastal belt in recent months.

The Crackdown Begins

The new directive, issued under Section 144 of the Criminal Procedure Code, empowers the district police and coastal security to enforce curfew-like conditions on all maritime entry points, including private jetties, local fishing docks, and tourist ferry terminals.

“We have observed growing misuse of island spaces during late hours,” said Dr. Vidyakumari during a press briefing held at the District Collectorate. “This includes everything from loud parties that disturb marine wildlife to illegal gatherings and even activities suspected to be linked to contraband trade.”

According to district records, at least seven incidents of illegal night entry onto islands were recorded between March and May 2025 alone. Some of these involved rave-like gatherings, noise complaints from nearby coastal villages, and unlicensed transport operators exploiting tourists.

Tourism Caught Off-Guard

Udupi, renowned for its pristine coastlines and hidden islets like St. Mary’s Island, Kudru, and Mannapalla, has seen a tourism boom in recent years — especially among weekend backpackers and vloggers seeking “undiscovered” locations. The new regulation has sparked mixed reactions from tourism operators.

“Most tourists return before sunset anyway, but this move could spook potential visitors,” said Rahul Kamath, who runs a kayaking and island camping business from Malpe. “We’re hoping authorities issue special permits for eco-tourism and guided night stays under regulation.”

However, environmentalists welcomed the decision.

“These islands are fragile ecosystems — night access disturbs nesting turtles, migratory birds, and coral habitats,” said Dr. Veena D'Souza, a marine biologist with the Coastal Ecology Foundation.

What the Order Says

Here’s a breakdown of the key points in the district administration’s directive:

• Timeframe: Daily ban from 6:00 PM to 6:00 AM

• Applies to: All 50 registered islands within Udupi district, including both inhabited and uninhabited islands

• Exceptions: Emergency response teams, authorized research bodies, and naval patrols with pre-approval

• Penalties: Violators may face fines, vessel impoundment, or legal action under the IPC and Environmental Protection Act

• Monitoring: Use of drone surveillance, coastal police patrols, and GPS tracking of licensed boats

A Look at Udupi’s Island Culture

The decision marks a turning point for a district celebrated not just for its temples and dosas, but for a rich island culture steeped in history and biodiversity. Some of Udupi’s lesser-known islands are home to ancient shrines, fishing hamlets, and rare coconut plantations, making them popular among cultural tourists and researchers.

St. Mary’s Island, for instance, is a geologically protected site known for its volcanic basalt rock formations — and one of the most Instagrammed spots in Karnataka.

Unfortunately, its fame also brought overcrowding, littering, and unauthorized night camping, prompting repeated warnings from the Forest Department in 2024.

Public Reaction: Safety vs. Freedom

Local residents living near popular ferry points welcomed the move.

“We’ve heard loud music blaring from the sea at midnight. It disturbs our sleep, our prayers, our livelihood,” said Ramakrishna Nayak, a fisherman from Kodi village.

But on social media, some young locals expressed frustration.

“Not all of us are partying or doing illegal stuff. Some just want to stargaze or shoot films. Why not regulate, instead of ban?” asked a Twitter user using the hashtag #SaveUdupiIslands.

Officials, however, remain firm on enforcement, at least until the monsoon season ends and a more nuanced tourism policy can be drafted.

The Bigger Picture: A Coastal Wake-Up Call

This development isn’t isolated. Coastal districts like Karwar, Ratnagiri, and even Goa have recently introduced similar curbs following growing challenges in managing maritime tourism.

Analysts suggest that the Udupi order could set a precedent for pan-Karnataka coastal regulation, especially as India gears up for international tourism in the post-pandemic era.

“It’s a necessary pause to reassess our relationship with the sea,” said Prof. Leena Shenoy, an urban planner specializing in coastal resilience. “Unfettered access often leads to irreversible damage.”

What’s Next?

The Deputy Commissioner’s office confirmed that a review meeting is scheduled for July, where tourism stakeholders and local Panchayats will propose amendments — including regulated night safaris, research passes, and eco-tourism licenses.

Until then, residents and tourists are advised to adhere strictly to the night ban.

“The ocean is generous. But it also needs rest,” said Dr. Vidyakumari in her closing remark — a sentiment now echoed across Udupi’s shores.

For Travel Operators & Tourists:

• Check for updated island visit hours on udupi.nic.in

• Register your vessel and operator ID before travel

• Dispose of waste responsibly — violators will be penalized

• Report illegal activity via the Coastal Watch Helpline: 1800-425-733