Category: Udupi District

  • Weather Alert for August 18, 2025: Heavy Rainfall Expected in Karnataka, School Closures Announced

    Bengaluru, August 17, 2025 – The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecasted extremely heavy rainfall in Karnataka’s coastal and south interior districts on August 18, 2025, prompting a red alert for Uttara Kannada, Dakshina Kannada, Udupi, Chikkamagaluru, and Shivamogga. An orange alert has been issued for north interior districts, including Hassan, Kodagu, Haveri, and Belagavi, while a yellow alert covers Bidar, Kalaburagi, Koppal, Raichur, Vijayapura, Vijayanagara, Yadgir, Chikkaballapura, Chitradurga, Davanagere, Kolar, and Mysuru. Rainfall is expected to persist across the state until August 23, with the Tunga River flowing above danger levels, raising concerns about flooding and landslides.

    School Closures

    • Chikkamagaluru District: Due to torrential rains in the Malenadu region, the district administration has declared a holiday for anganwadis and schools on August 18 in Mudigere, Kalasa, Sringeri, Koppa, Narasimharajapura, and specific hoblis in Chikkamagaluru taluk (Jagar, Khandya, Aldur, Vastare, Avathi). District Collector Meena Nagaraj issued the order as a precautionary measure.
    • Uttara Kannada District: With a red alert in place, the district administration has announced a holiday for primary and high schools across Karwar, Ankola, Kumta, Honnavar, Bhatkal, Sirsi, Siddapur, Yellapur, Dandeli, and Joida taluks. District Collector Lakshmipriya issued the directive to ensure safety.

    Public Advisory

    The Udupi District Disaster Management Authority has urged residents, tourists, and fishermen to avoid rivers, water bodies, and the sea due to high waves and strong winds expected in the Arabian Sea. People are advised to stay indoors during rain, wind, or lightning, avoid agricultural activities, and steer clear of unstable trees, power lines, or weak structures. Residents in landslide-prone areas should contact tahsildar offices or gram panchayats for relocation to care centers. Emergency contacts include the toll-free number 1077 and the Udupi District Control Room at 0820-2574802.

    The public is requested to adhere to these safety measures to mitigate risks during this period of intense weather activity.

    Heavy rain forecast | Maravanthe | Photo:Waqqas Kazi
  • Brahmavara: Udupi District Farmers’ Association-Backed Group Secures Full Majority in Dakshina Kannada Cooperative Sugar Factory Board Election

    Brahmavara, August 17, 2025 – In the election held on August 17, 2025, for the new board of directors of the Dakshina Kannada Cooperative Sugar Factory, Brahmavara, the group supported by the Udupi District Farmers’ Association secured a full majority. The election, conducted under the supervision of Assistant Development Officer Sunil Kumar C.M. from the Deputy Registrar of Cooperative Societies’ office, saw robust participation and oversight by Deputy Registrar Smt. Lavanya K.R.

    From the general category, Bhujanga Shetty (Brahmavara), Sanjeeva Shetty (Sampigedi), Satish Kini (Belve), K. Doru Sadananda Shetty, and H. Hariprasad Shetty were elected with a majority. Manjunath Giliyar was elected from the Primary Agricultural Credit Cooperative Societies category. Additionally, seven candidates were elected unopposed: Ranganayak (Scheduled Tribe reserved seat), Shivaram Haladi (Scheduled Caste reserved seat), Bhoja Kulal (Belanje, Backward Class), Uday Kumar Shetty (Adikodlu, Backward Class B), Chaitra Adapa (Women’s reserved seat), and Girija Poojarthi (Amasebailu, Women’s reserved seat).

    K. Pratapchandra Shetty, president of the Udupi District Farmers’ Association, congratulated all elected candidates, emphasizing the victory as a testament to the farmers’ collective strength and commitment to revitalizing the cooperative sugar factory. This outcome follows the association’s prolonged protests against alleged corruption in the factory, including a 50-day dharna that ended in April 2025 after government assurances of action.

  • Udupi: District Disaster Management Authority Issues Heavy Rain and Wind Alert for August 18-19, 2025

    Udupi, August 17, 2025 – The Udupi District Disaster Management Authority, led by Deputy Commissioner Swarupa T.K., has issued a press release based on forecasts from the India Meteorological Department (IMD) and Karnataka State Natural Disaster Monitoring Centre, Bengaluru, warning of heavy rainfall accompanied by strong winds in coastal Karnataka, including Udupi, from August 18 to August 19, 2025. The IMD predicts intense winds and significantly high sea waves in the Arabian Sea during this period, posing risks of coastal erosion and wave surges.

    Public Safety Guidelines:

    • Avoid Water Bodies: Residents, tourists, and fishermen are strictly advised not to venture near rivers, water bodies, or the sea.
    • Seek Shelter: During rain, wind, or lightning, stay indoors in sturdy buildings and avoid outdoor movement.
    • Agricultural Precautions: Farmers should refrain from agricultural activities during heavy rain or lightning.
    • Avoid Hazardous Areas: Stay clear of unstable trees, electric poles, or exposed power lines. Secure buildings by trimming dangerous branches or tiles.
    • Landslide Risk: Due to potential landslides in heavy rain-prone areas, residents in vulnerable zones should contact the Tahsildar’s office or Gram Panchayat and relocate to nearby care centers.

    Precautionary Measures:

    • Avoid unnecessary travel and remain in safe buildings. Those in weak structures should seek shelter in designated care centers.
    • Emergency contact numbers:
      • Toll-Free: 1077
      • District Disaster Management Control Room: 0820-2574802
      • Taluk Tahsildar Offices:
        • Udupi: 0820-2520417
        • Kundapura: 08254-230357
        • Karkala: 08258-230201
        • Kapu: 0820-2551444
        • Brahmavara: 0820-2560494
        • Byndoor: 08254-251657
        • Hebri: 08253-250201
      • Udupi City Municipal Helpline: 0820-2593366 or 0820-2520306

    Instructions for Officials:

    • District and taluk-level officials, designated nodal officers, and local disaster management committee members must remain stationed at their headquarters and be prepared to manage any emergencies.

    The authority urges the public to strictly adhere to these guidelines to ensure safety during this period of adverse weather conditions.

    Heavy rain forecast | Maravanthe | Photo:Waqqas Kazi
  • Udupi: Anganwadi Golden Jubilee Celebrations Planned for October 2, Says Minister Lakshmi Hebbalkar

    Udupi, August 17, 2025: During the inauguration of a newly constructed Anganwadi building at Durga Nagar, Yellur, on August 15, 2025, Minister for Women and Child Development and Udupi District In-Charge Lakshmi Hebbalkar announced that Karnataka is preparing to celebrate the golden jubilee of Anganwadis on October 2, 2025. The event, marking 50 years of the Anganwadi initiative, will be a grand celebration, with plans to host it at Palace Grounds in Bengaluru, as confirmed in discussions with Chief Minister Siddaramaiah.

    inauguration of a newly constructed Anganwadi building at Durga Nagar, Yellur

    The minister emphasized the state’s commitment to enhancing pre-primary education by introducing LKG and UKG classes in Anganwadi centers, a move that will make Karnataka the first state in India to implement such a program at this level. She noted that the state’s 70,000 Anganwadi centers are being developed in phases to improve infrastructure and services.

    The new Anganwadi building, constructed through the collaboration of Udupi district administration, Udupi Zilla Panchayat, the Women and Child Development Department, and Kaup Taluk Panchayat, aims to provide better facilities for early childhood education and care. Hebbalkar also highlighted the state’s efforts to support Anganwadi workers, including a ₹1,000 honorarium increase in the last budget and recognition of 3,800 mini Anganwadi centers by the central government, the highest in the country.

    The event was attended by Kaup MLA Gurme Suresh Shetty, MLC Kishore Kumar, District Guarantee Scheme Implementation Committee President Ashok Kumar Kodavoor, former minister Vinay Kumar Sorake, Deputy Commissioner Swarupa T.K., Zilla Panchayat CEO Prateek Bayal, Assistant Commissioner Rashmi, Tahsildar Dr. Prathiba, Taluk CEO James Dsilva, and other department officials.

    inauguration of a newly constructed Anganwadi building at Durga Nagar, Yellur
  • Amasebailu: Police Raid Gambling Den, 10 Arrested

    Amasebailu, August 17, 2025 – Acting on a tip-off, Amasebailu police, under the leadership of PSI Ashok Kumar, conducted a raid on August 15, 2025, at 5:00 PM in a public shed near Gopal Poojari’s residence in Kela Salamakki, Amasebailu village. The operation targeted an illegal gambling activity where 10 individuals were caught playing the card game “Andar-Bahar” for money on a plastic sheet.

    The arrested individuals include:

    1. Gopal Poojari
    2. Gopal Kothari
    3. Kumar Poojari
    4. Satish Poojari
    5. Suresh Kothari
    6. Uday Poojari
    7. Shankar Poojari
    8. Pradeep Shetty
    9. Surendra Naik
    10. Uday Naik

    All residents of Amasebailu village. The police seized ₹9,450 in cash, 52 playing cards, one plastic sheet, and four mobile phones used in the gambling activity.

    A case has been registered at Amasebailu Police Station under Crime No. 28/2025, Section 87 of the Karnataka Police Act. The operation was supported by police staff Raghavendra, Mallesh, Vinod Kumar, Sachin Kulal, and Sampath Kumar. Further investigations are underway.

  • Udupi: Independence Day celebration by Womens’ India Movement

    Udupi, August 17, 2025: The Women India Movement (WIM) Udupi district unit marked the 79th Independence Day on August 15, 2025, with a series of programs under the theme “Women’s Safety is the Measure of Freedom.” Flag-hoisting ceremonies were organized across various locations, including Udupi, Hoode, Adi Udupi, Kandlur, Gangolli, Kapu, Kombagudde, Malpe, Mulur, and Kundapura.

    The events featured educational sessions on “The Role of Women in the Freedom Struggle and the Current Status of Women in India,” highlighting their contributions and challenges. Additionally, sports and competitive activities were held for women and children to foster community engagement and empowerment.

    The programs were attended by key WIM Udupi district leaders, including President Naziya Nasrulla, General Secretary Rahamatunnisa, Vice President Naseem Mubeen, and field committee leaders Haseena Udupi, Farzana Kapu, Naseema Fatima, Nousheen Kandlur, Nasira Kundapur, and Ayisha Nahreen Gangolli, along with other members.

  • Byndoor: Khidma Foundation Donates Chairs and Stretcher Trolleys to Byndoor Community Health Centre

    Kundapur, August 17, 2025: As part of Independence Day celebrations, the Khidma Foundation’s Kundapura and Byndoor taluk units donated chairs and stretcher trolleys to the Byndoor Community Health Centre to improve patient facilities. Additionally, fruits were distributed to patients at the hospital during a program held on August 15, 2025.

    Dr. Rajesh C. Saukoor, Administrative Medical Officer of the health centre, addressed the gathering, noting that the hospital serves numerous patients from surrounding villages daily but faces a shortage of medical equipment. He expressed gratitude for the donation, stating it would enhance service delivery. Dr. Saukoor also highlighted the need to upgrade the facility to a taluk hospital, with a proposal already submitted to the government, especially since Byndoor has been designated a taluk centre.

    Former Zilla Panchayat member Suresh Batwadi praised the hospital staff’s dedication and the foundation’s contribution, emphasizing that patients from all communities benefit from the facility, and the donation will significantly improve public convenience. Mobi P.C., president of the Byndoor Lawyers’ Association, commended the foundation’s efforts and extended best wishes.

    The event was presided over by Khidma Foundation president Sheikh Abu Muhammad. Maulana Zameer Ahmad Rashadi delivered the introductory speech, and secretary Muhammad Rafeeq Wandse compered the program and offered the vote of thanks. Attendees included social worker Fayaz Ali Byndoor, foundation vice-president Muhammad Haris Golihole, pharmacy officer Ashfaq Nagur, members Bedre Ibrahim Kundapur, Abdul Rahman Shirur, Rizwan Nagur, Aslam Tallur, Irfan Nagur, Hasan Shabbar Shirur, Jalal Sheikh Kandlur, hospital staff, and others.

  • Kundapur: Mujawar Abu Muhammad Elected as President of Jamiayyatul Falah Kundapur Taluk Unit

    Kundapur, August 17, 2025 – Mujawar Abu Muhammad, a prominent social worker, Kundapur Municipal Council member, and Udupi District Muslim Federation committee member, has been elected president of the Jamiayyatul Falah Kundapur taluk unit for a two-year term. The announcement was made on August 16, 2025, during a program attended by the organization’s office-bearers, members, and local community leaders.

    The meeting included a Quran recitation, introductory speech, biennial report, and financial overview, reflecting the organization’s transparent and comprehensive approach. A spokesperson for Jamiayyatul Falah stated, “Under Abu Muhammad Mujawar’s leadership, we are confident that the Kundapur taluk unit will continue to make a meaningful impact in our community.” The press release further noted that his vision and dedication will guide initiatives in education, social harmony, and welfare over the next two years.

  • Kollur: 5 Pavan Gold Chain Stolen from Devotee at Shri Mookambika Temple

    Kollur, August 16, 2025 – A theft incident occurred at Shri Mookambika Temple in Kollur village, Byndoor taluk, Udupi district, where a 64-year-old woman from Mudradi village, Hebri, lost a 5 pavan gold chain on August 15, 2025. The incident took place near Sri Veerabhadra Gudi during a chaotic crowd rush caused by sudden rainfall. A case has been registered at Kollur Police Station under Section 303(2) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) (Crime No. 64/2025).

    The complainant arrived at the temple around 12:30 PM with her daughter and son-in-law. While they were in the queue, the complainant visited the Sri Veerabhadra Gudi. Heavy rain triggered a rush toward the gudi, causing some people to fall on her. After the crowd dispersed, she returned to the queue and noticed the gold chain was missing. The theft is believed to have occurred between 12:30 PM and 1:00 PM near the gudi.

    Kollur police have registered a case based on the complaint and initiated an investigation to identify the culprits and recover the stolen jewelry.

  • Hemmadi: Retired CRPF Soldier Honored at Independence Day Event by Mogaveera Yuvaka Sanghatane

    Hemmadi, August 15, 2025 – As part of the 79th Independence Day celebrations, the Mogaveera Yuvaka Sanghatane (Registered), Hemmadi Unit, in collaboration with the G. Shankar Family Trust, Udupi, Ambalpady, organized a program titled “Sainikaraigonda Gouravarpane” (A Tribute to Soldiers). During the event, retired Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) soldier Mohan Das Shetty and his wife were felicitated at their residence in Hemmadi, Udupi district, in recognition of their service to the nation.

    The program was presided over by Dinesh Kanchan Balikere, president of the Mogaveera Yuvaka Sanghatane, Hemmadi Unit. Speaking at the event, senior member Dr. Athul Kumar Shetty praised the organization’s efforts and community initiatives. Attendees included Chittur Gram Panchayat President Raviraj Shetty, Hemmadi Unit Honorary President Lohithashwa R. Kundar, former president Raghavendra Nempu, Chittur Panchayat members Chandra Shetty, Raghurama Shetty, and Narayana Shetty, Hemmadi Unit secretary Jagadish Nempu, former Kat Beltur Gram Panchayat president Nagaraj Putran, Stree Shakti Bagwadi Hobli president Shyamala J. Chandan, and members of the Mogaveera Yuvaka Sanghatane and Nempu Friends.

    The event was compered and concluded with a vote of thanks by Praveen Mogaveera Gangolli, vice-president of the Hemmadi Unit.