Public Works and District In-charge Minister Satish Jarakiholi visited the flood-affected and rain-damaged areas of Khanapur taluk on Friday, in anticipation of heavy rains and potential flooding in the district.
During his visit, Minister Jarakiholi inspected the Kusumalli Bridge on Jamboti Road and assessed the condition of the bridge constructed across the Malaprabha River, which connects Khanapur to Jamboti. He later met with residents of various villages at the Khanapur guest house to hear their concerns.
Residents of Hirehattiholi village, located on the banks of the Malaprabha River, expressed their urgent need for alternative arrangements as their village faces annual flooding during the rainy season. They highlighted the lack of medical facilities, education, and other essential infrastructure, urging the minister to provide a permanent solution. Minister Jarakiholi instructed officials to investigate the matter and take appropriate action.
Fifteen Villages Ready to Relocate
In a statement to reporters at Khanapur, Minister Jarakiholi mentioned that fifteen villages in the forested areas of Khanapur taluk are on a list for receiving basic facilities. If these facilities cannot be provided, relocation of the residents will be considered. He noted the challenges posed by the forest department’s restrictions on building new roads in the area, where people have lived for hundreds of years. Discussions have been held with the Forest Minister and local MLAs to address these local conditions.
The minister also mentioned a recent incident involving a woman from Amagaon village who died due to health problems, exacerbated by network issues and inadequate road access for ambulance services. Villagers are also struggling to access ration supplies. Minister Jarakiholi clarified that relocation would be considered if 80 percent of the residents agreed.
As a precaution, heavy vehicle traffic has been restricted on many old bridges in Khanapur. Tenders have been invited to repair the National Highway road and construct bridges from Khanapur to the Goa state border. The construction of a new bridge will be suggested after the rainy season ends.
The current flood situation is under control, according to Minister Jarakiholi, who conducted a visit and inspection in various places in Chikkodi yesterday. He assured me that there was no immediate problem.