Steps initiated for distribution of relief to rain-affected residents of Bagalkot district

BAGALKOT: Deputy commissioner Janaki KM, who is also the chairperson of the District Disaster Management Authority, has stated that steps are being taken to provide relief and compensation to those who have suffered loss due to Thursday's gusty winds and heavy rain in the district.

She said officers have been instructed to visit the affected areas and assess the extent of loss without discrimination. Based on the reports, compensation will be disbursed, she added.

The DC said Kavita Basappa Harali, 17, from Dhavaleshwar village of Rabakavi-Banahatti taluk who was struck by lightning, is being treated at a private hospital in Bagalkot and the tahalisdar of Rabakavi-Banahatti has been instructed to extend all help to her.

Two buffaloes in Hireshellikeri of Bagalkot taluk died after being struck by lightning and the tahalisdar has been directed to disburse a compensation of Rs 37,500 each. In all, 12 houses and 16 sheds have been partially damaged in the district and the extent of loss is being assessed.

Horticulture crops have suffered loss in Kaladagi, Tulasigeri, Deavanal and Kerakalamatti.

Minister visits affected areas

District minister RB Timmapur and Bilgi MLA JT Patil visited the areas affected by winds and heavy rain in the district on Saturday and directed officials to assess loss so that those who have suffered should not be deprived of benefits and compensation.

'Use apps for weather forecast'

The district administration has appealed to people to contact Varunamitra helpline 9243345433 to know the weather forecast and take precautions.

The forecast for thunder and lightning can be had on Sidilu App, Damini App and Sacheta App. These apps provide information about lightning 30 minutes before it strikes and offer suggestions to protect oneself.

The deputy commissioner informed that all the taluks in Bagalkot district were declared as drought-affected and as many as 1,60,260 farmers have been paid Rs 31.8 crore as crop loss compensation in nine phases.