Traffic movement on the Mysore-Kushalnagar-Madikeri road (State Highway 88) has been halted since yesterday following a massive breach in the road following heavy rains.

The breach has occurred near Cinchona Estate in Boikeri village, about 6kms from Madikeri town.

Deputy Commissioner Dr. N.V. Prasad, who inspected the spot along with other officials, told press persons that as a precautionary measure, the vehicles plying on the Madikeri- Suntikoppa route will have to ply via Madikeri-Madapura-Suntikoppa route.

The DC said that the deep crack in the road had occurred following heavy rainfall and directed the Executive Engineer of Karnataka Road Development Corporation Limited (KRDCL), Ashok, to ascertain the technical reason for the collapse of the road and undertake repair works immediately.

KRDCL Assistant Engineer Venkatesh, Superintendent of Police Anuchet and other officials were present.

The DC has also banned the plying of heavy vehicles along the Madikeri-Chettalli route till August 31, as a retaining wall will be built along the road in Kathalekadu village.

A few houses and other roads were also damaged in the district which has received copious rainfall. Holidays for schools and colleges in the district have been extended till today.

Cauvery and Lakshmanatheertha rivers are flowing close to the danger mark. The district administration has directed those living on the river banks to move to safer areas.

The highest rainfall, 116.2 mm, was received by Shantahalli followed by Bhagamandala which received 115.8 mm.

Courtesy : Star Of Mysore