Dakshina Kannada schools to remain shut due to severe rains and red alert warnings. District authorities take proactive steps amid rising water levels and urban flooding.
Article Body
All Schools in Dakshina Kannada Closed Amidst Torrential Rains; Authorities Issue Red Alert
MANGALURU, JUNE 15, 2025 — In a decisive move to ensure the safety of students and staff, the Dakshina Kannada district administration has declared a complete holiday for all schools across the region starting Monday, June 16, due to relentless heavy rainfall that continues to lash the coastal belt of Karnataka.
The announcement, made late Sunday night by Deputy Commissioner M.P. Dayananda, comes after three consecutive days of downpours triggered severe waterlogging, minor landslides, and rising river levels in the region. The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has placed the district under a red alert for the next 48 hours, forecasting continued intense rainfall accompanied by gusty winds and thunderstorm activity.
Why This Move Was Inevitable
Dakshina Kannada, which includes major towns such as Mangaluru, Bantwal, Puttur, and Sullia, has witnessed over 250 mm of rainfall in 48 hours — double the seasonal average. Several arterial roads remain submerged, prompting emergency response teams to set up barricades and reroute traffic in vulnerable zones.
Schools — especially those in low-lying areas — reported difficulties in ferrying students home due to flash flooding on Friday and Saturday. In response, the Education Department held an emergency meeting with local authorities and law enforcement on Sunday afternoon, leading to the region-wide school closure notice.
All Schools Closed in Dakshina Kannada Amid Red Alert for Heavy Rain
Students and Parents React
For students, the sudden holiday has brought a mix of relief and concern. “It’s unsafe to travel right now. Our school buses were stuck twice last week. I'm glad the authorities acted in time,” said Kavya Shetty, a 10th-grade student at Lourdes Central School.
Parents, too, applauded the proactive decision. “The rain hasn't let up for days. We’re constantly worried about our children’s safety while commuting. This holiday is a much-needed step,” shared Rakesh D’Souza, a parent from Bantwal.
Relief Efforts Underway
The district disaster management team, in coordination with the NDRF, has begun deploying boats in affected areas such as Ullal, Moodbidri, and parts of Belthangady where local rivers have started overflowing. Emergency helplines are active, and shelters have been prepared in government schools for residents from flooded homes.
The Dakshina Kannada zilla panchayat has directed panchayat officials to remain on high alert. Power supply has been disrupted in several taluks, and the Mescom electricity board is working round the clock to restore connections.
IMD Forecast: What Lies Ahead
The IMD has predicted “extremely heavy rainfall” (above 204.4 mm) in coastal Karnataka, warning of further landslides in hilly regions and urban flooding in coastal towns. Fishermen have been strictly advised against venturing into the Arabian Sea due to high tidal waves and squalls.
Not Just a Local Phenomenon
The current weather chaos is part of a larger monsoon surge affecting the entire western coastline. Kerala, Goa, and parts of Maharashtra are also witnessing similar rain patterns. However, Dakshina Kannada has emerged as one of the worst-hit districts this week.
Environmentalists point out that unplanned urban expansion, concretization of riverbanks, and inadequate drainage systems are amplifying the impact of monsoons every year. “What was once manageable rain is now a threat because we’ve changed how the land absorbs water,” said Dr. Anil Prabhu, a climate scientist based in Manipal.
Historical Precedent and Preparedness
This is not the first time the region has been paralyzed by monsoonal fury. In 2018 and 2022, similar rainfall patterns led to prolonged school shutdowns and evacuations. However, experts note that this year’s pre-emptive closure of schools indicates improved disaster preparedness.
The Education Department has instructed schools to transition to online classes if the closure extends beyond three days, particularly for senior classes. A separate circular is expected Monday outlining the digital class schedule.
Conclusion: Stay Home, Stay Safe
The district administration has urged residents to stay indoors, avoid unnecessary travel, and follow updates via official sources. With rains likely to continue, the focus now shifts to mitigation, safety, and swift relief.
As the monsoon intensifies, the spirit of Dakshina Kannada is once again tested — but with preparedness, community cooperation, and timely decisions, the district is geared to weather the storm
