Bantwal: The heavy rains that lashed over Bantwal on Tuesday night has unleashed havoc across the taluk. Hundreds of houses, plantations and electric polls have been damaged due to rain fury.

With almost 400 electric poles being uprooted, the taluk is reeling under power crisis as well. As per sources the rain damage as been pegged at Rs 2.30 cr.

Over 110 houses have been completely damaged while 322 houses have been partially damaged in places like Narikombu, Mogarnadu, Panemangaluru, Shamboor, Bantwal, Vagga, Punjalkatte, Sajipa, Vittal Bobbakeri and nearby areas as trees fell over these houses.

As many as 93 plantations and agri fields have been damaged, said Bantwal Taluk Tahshildar.

The damages have been estimated as Rs 1.10 cr for 110 completely damaged houses, Rs 64 lakhs for partially damaged houses, 93 plantations and agri fields at Rs 5 lakhs and 430 electric poles at Rs 51 lakhs.

The Mescom staff was seen clearing off the trees on the roads even during late night on Tuesday. They had a tough time clearing the fallen electric poles. While some lines were set right during Tuesday late night, some lines were set restored on Wednesday morning. Several areas in the taluk are still reeling under power crisis.

Meanwhile, several trees fell on BC Road-Dharmasthala NH blocking the road for several hours.

Act now, says Assistant Commissioner

Taking note of the situation Mangaluru Assistant Commissioner Dr Ashok has said that gruel centres must be kept functional immediately to provide temporary shelter to the families that have been displaced due to the rain fury.

Holding a meeting in Bantwal on Wednesday, the AC said that the officials will have to be alert and respond to the needs of the people during this time of crisis.

He took to task Panchayat Development Officers and taluk-level officer for not visiting the areas that have suffered losses.