Karwar: Authorities have issued a red alert for coastal taluks of Uttara Kannada district until 8:30 am on August 20, following heavy inflows into the Linganamakki reservoir and forecasts of continued rainfall, as per the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) and the Karnataka State Natural Disaster Monitoring Centre (KSNDMC).

According to officials, the maximum water storage level of the reservoir is 1,819 feet. As of 1 pm on August 18, the water level had already reached 1,815.50 feet, with an inflow of more than 59,891 cusecs. If the inflow continues at this pace, the reservoir is likely to reach its maximum capacity soon.

To ensure the safety of the dam, the Executive Engineer of KPCL, Linganamakki, announced on Sunday, August 18, that excess water would be released from the reservoir starting 10 am on Monday, August 19.

Deputy Commissioner Lakshmi Priya K, who also chairs the District Disaster Management Authority, has urged the public to strictly follow safety guidelines. Residents of low-lying villages along the banks of the Sharavathi River, particularly in Honnavar taluk, have been advised to remain alert. People in flood-prone areas are instructed to move valuables to safer places and take shelter in designated relief centres.

Relief centres have already been set up in vulnerable areas along the river. Fishermen, tourists, and the general public have been strictly warned against venturing into the river, its surrounding areas, or into the sea during this period.

For emergency assistance, the district administration has activated a 24x7 control room with a toll-free helpline at 08382-229857 and a WhatsApp support line at 9483511015.