K'taka CM conducts aerial survey of flood, landslide affected areas

Karnataka Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy on Saturday conducted an aerial survey of flood and landslide affected areas of Kodagu.

Earlier in the day, the Karnataka Chief Minister conducted a press briefing and said that over one thousand security personnel are involved in rescue operation of those affected by torrential rains in the state.

He said, "Over 1000 security personnel, including those from National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), Navy, Army, Fire Department, Home Guards etc. are involved in rescue operations. Air Force is lifting stranded people and is also dropping relief material where required. 200 cadets from National Cadet Corps (NCC) are also working for rescue and relief. We are working non-stop".

Briefing further about the casualties and damages, Kumaraswamy said, "Over 11,000 houses have been damaged. Six people have lost their lives in Kodagu district. Many officials from other areas have been shifted to Kodagu. Officials have been asked to provide a list of damaged roads and start the work for repairs". He also informed that Banks have been ordered to stock up their ATMs.

Before the presser, Chief Minister Kumaraswamy conducted a video conference with the Deputy Commissioners of flood affected districts.

On Saturday morning, Kodagu district in-charge minister Sa Ra Mahesh had told ANI that the rescue operations in the rain-battered district will be over by evening.

A high alert in five districts namely Kodagu, Dakshina Kannada, Hassan, Chikkamagaluru, and Shivamogga was declared on August 15 by the Karnataka Chief Minister. Incessant rains have lashed Karnataka since August 14, causing landslide and disruption of normal life in the state.