Minister Santosh Lad inspects flood prone areas and announces desilting project

HUBBALLI: The district is experiencing good rainfall. Visits are being made to flood-prone areas for inspection, said district minister Santosh Lad.Speaking to reporters after visiting flood-prone areas in Shiraguppi and Ingala Halli villages of Hubballi taluk on Wednesday, Lad said that instructions were given to relevant department officials to take necessary measures for flood control.

"Due to heavy rains, Benne Halla and Tuppari Halla cause flooding. A desilting project for these streams, costing Rs 200 crore, will be undertaken after the tender process is completed," he added.He mentioned that a request was made to the Chief Minister and Deputy Chief Minister for funding the desilting of Benne Halla and Tuppari Halla. "Accordingly, Rs 200 crore was allocated in the budget. The desilting work will commence after the tender process is completed, ensuring no issues for the next 5 to 10 years.

Permanent solutions will be implemented for Benne Halla and Tuppari Halla," he informed.He further said, "Flood-prone areas have already been identified. Officials have been instructed to ensure no loss of life due to flooding. A task force will be formed, equipped with life jackets and other necessary gear."MLA N H Konaraddi stated that the monsoon started early, creating a positive atmosphere among farmers. "Following the directions of the Chief Minister and Deputy Chief Minister, local MLAs, along with district in-charge ministers, have been advised to take preventive measures to mitigate flood damage. Accordingly, visits were made to Benne Halla and Tuppari Halla areas today. The desilting work, announced in the budget at a cost of Rs 200 crore, will begin after the tender process is completed.

Preparations are being made to handle heavy rainfall, with farmers cooperating with us," he added.Deputy Commissioner Divya Prabhu GRJ, SP Dr Gopal Byakod, and other department officials and villagers were present on the occasion.