Udupi Declares Rain Holiday for Schools, PU Colleges, ITIs as Flood Risk Worsens
UDUPI – In response to persistent, heavy rainfall and escalating flood threats in low-lying regions, the Udupi district administration has officially declared a holiday for all schools, Pre-University (PU) colleges, and ITIs on Tuesday, June 17, 2025. This move comes as rain-fed rivers continue to swell, and saturated grounds pose increasing risks to student safety and transportation infrastructure.
This is the first time in the current monsoon spell that authorities have expanded school closures to include higher secondary and vocational education sectors, reflecting the severity of the situation.
Relentless Rains Prompt Broader Shutdown
Until Monday evening, the holiday announcement applied only to Anganwadis, primary schools, and high schools. However, with rainfall intensifying overnight and multiple taluks reporting waterlogging, tree falls, and traffic disruption, the administration widened its safety net.
Speaking exclusively to Kudla News, Udupi Deputy Commissioner Dr. K. Vidya Kumari said:
“The rainfall forecast remains alarming. We’ve extended closures to PU and ITI colleges out of an abundance of caution. Student safety is our highest priority.”
Notably, degree, postgraduate, and diploma colleges will remain open for now, under advisories to ensure proper shelter and safe commuting practices for students and faculty.
PU Supplementary Exams to Continue
Despite the shutdown order, authorities have confirmed that PU supplementary examinations will proceed as scheduled. Schools serving as exam centers have been instructed to remain operational only for examination purposes, with contingency plans for candidates coming from flood-affected zones.
Areas of Concern
The worst-hit areas include:
-
Kundapura: Rivers overflowing near Gangolli and Basrur
-
Brahmavar: Flash flooding in interior roads
-
Udupi city outskirts: Tree falls and blocked culverts
-
Hebri and Karkala: Landslide-prone slopes monitored closely
Disaster management teams have been deployed at vulnerable points, and the district emergency control room is on high alert for any escalation.
Transport and Infrastructure
-
Private buses in some routes may suspend operations early on Tuesday
-
KSRTC buses expected to run with adjusted timings based on water levels
-
Rural roads, particularly mud and internal routes, are now unfit for student commuting
Public Works Department (PWD) teams are working overnight to clear debris and drain blocked channels.
Community Response and Alerts
Local Gram Panchayats and ward committees have issued:
-
SMS alerts to parents and staff
-
Social media warnings on localized flooding
-
Instructions to avoid riverbanks and abandoned structures
In some localities, hostel authorities have been advised to stock emergency supplies, including drinking water, raincoats, and backup electricity.
Possible Updates for June 18
The district will review the weather conditions on Tuesday evening before issuing any decision for Wednesday, June 18. If the India Meteorological Department (IMD) maintains its red alert status, additional closures may follow.
Broader Context: A Monsoon Season to Watch
Udupi is no stranger to monsoon fury. However, this year’s June showers have arrived earlier and stronger than expected. With IMD warnings of more heavy rainfall through the week, educational disruptions may persist longer than originally anticipated.