Karwar June 08: Monsoon rains continue in Uttara Kannada district, disrupting normal life across the district. Heavy rains since morning have inundated many low-lying areas, and water levels in rivers and streams have risen. The district administration has also taken precautionary measures after the Meteorological Department declared a red alert for Uttara Kannada district today and tomorrow.
Atmalinga touch darshan suspended
The Mahabaleshwar temple in Gokarna, an important religious site in the district, has also faced waterlogging due to heavy rains. Since there is a possibility of water entering the sanctum sanctorum of the temple due to continuous rains, the temple administration has taken an important decision. The system for devotees to directly touch the Atmalinga and have darshan has been temporarily suspended.
As per the order of the temple administration, Atmalinga touch darshan will not be allowed until further notice. Instead, devotees can have darshan of the Atmalinga from the Nandi Mantapa of the temple. Temple sources said that this decision has been taken as a precautionary measure for the safety of devotees and to prevent any disaster from happening inside the temple.
Postpone unnecessary travel
Thousands of devotees arrive in Gokarna from various parts of the state and from outside states. Due to the intensity of monsoon rains, the temple administration has warned devotees and advised them to postpone unnecessary travel as much as possible. The district administration has appealed to tourists and locals to be cautious as the waves are also increasing in the coastal areas.
According to the forecast of the Meteorological Department, heavy rains are likely to continue for two more days. Therefore, residents of low-lying areas, fishermen and tourists have been advised to take special precautions. The administrative machinery in Uttara Kannada district is functioning on full alert amid the monsoon.