Thu Oct 09 14:47:39 UTC 2025: **News Article:**
**Heavy Rains Wreak Havoc in Annigeri; Official Promises Swift Action**
**HUBBALLI, October 9, 2025 (The Hindu) -** Severe rainfall on Wednesday night has caused widespread flooding and damage in Annigeri town, Dharwad district, prompting a visit from top officials. Bhuvanesh Patil, CEO of the Dharwad Zilla Panchayat and Acting Deputy Commissioner, toured the rain-affected areas on Thursday, assessing the damage and directing immediate relief efforts.
Several localities, including Surakod Extension, Harijan Keri, Rajarajeshwar Nagar, and JSS Colony, experienced significant inundation, with rainwater entering homes. Patil instructed local officials to prioritize drainage clearance, emphasizing the need to verify original layout maps and clear storm-water drains. He also called for the urgent development of an action plan to address the flooding issue.
Residents voiced their concerns regarding the narrow and silt-filled drains along the National Highway service road, which contribute to the overflow during heavy rainfall.
Tragically, eight houses were partially damaged, and eight sheep were killed by lightning strikes on the town’s outskirts. A crucial connecting bridge between Saidapur and Hosalli was also washed away by the force of the rain. Patil has ordered the Panchayat Raj engineer to prepare an immediate action plan for bridge reconstruction, to be submitted to the Zilla Panchayat for approval.
Patil was accompanied by various officials and municipal council members during his inspection. The Dharwad Zilla Panchayat has pledged to expedite the approval process and provide necessary resources for relief and reconstruction efforts. The focus remains on providing immediate assistance to affected residents and preventing further damage from potential future rainfall.
First Piper 