Shivamogga: Karnataka energy minister and Shivamogga district minister KJ George on Tuesday reviewed the monsoon situation, crop damage and ongoing relief operations in the district.Shivamogga DC Prabhuling noted that Shivamogga has recorded 48% rainfall deficit so far. Though recent heavy rain over the last 24 hours has raised hopes that the deficit will shrink if the weather persists. Heavy winds and rain in April and May caused significant damage in the Shivamogga Rural and Bhadravathi taluks.Officials confirmed that damage data has been uploaded, and compensation under state disaster response fund guidelines stands at Rs 22,500 per hectare. Following requests from local MLAs, a proposal for a special package has also been sent to the govt, and distribution will begin as soon as funds are released.Furthermore, strong winds partially damaged 456 houses, and immediate relief of Rs 6,000 and Rs 8,500 was handed over to the flood victims, with full compensation to follow. Fortunately, officials reported zero human or livestock casualties so far. Minister George directed officials to place highest priority on emergency relief operations.The minister sparked significant political curiosity, indicating that a leader from Shivamogga will be inducted into the Shivakumar govt. “One of your own would soon come here as the permanent district minister,” he stated. This comment has triggered widespread speculation with names like Madhu Bangarappa, MLA Belur Gopal Krishna, BK Sangameshwar and MLC Balkis Banu making the rounds.
