Shivamogga: The district minister of Shivamogga, Madhu Bangarappa, announced on Tuesday that a comprehensive report will be sought into the soil collapse incident that occurred during the construction of a retaining wall at Hulikal Ghat. This vital road, connecting the Malnad and coastal regions, has been the site of a tragic landslide. Minister Bangarappa assured that strict legal action would be initiated against any individuals found to be culpable.
During an inspection of the ongoing retaining wall construction at the Hosanagara taluk site, Minister Bangarappa, accompanied by officials, addressed reporters. He emphasized the government’s serious concern regarding the incident and warned of severe repercussions for officials and contractors who failed to implement adequate safety precautions. The minister stressed that justice would be served for the victims.
A high-level meeting is scheduled with the Public Works Minister and relevant department heads to expedite the completion of the remaining construction work in a systematic and safe manner. Minister Bangarappa also reassured local residents of his commitment to addressing their concerns and finding a permanent solution to the region’s infrastructure challenges.
Background of the Incident
The landslide occurred on Thursday evening at a hairpin bend in Hulikal Ghat, a section known for its steep curves and susceptibility to landslides. Workers were engaged in the construction of a 70-foot concrete retaining wall aimed at enhancing road safety. A sudden collapse of loose soil and rocks from the hillside buried seven workers. Three labourers—Raghavendra (37), Raju (30), and Shabbir (40)—died on the spot, while four others sustained injuries and were hospitalized.
Preliminary assessments suggest that engineering safety protocols may have been overlooked during the construction. Specifically, concerns have been raised about the decision to cut the hillside vertically rather than employing the safer ‘benching’ method, which involves stepped or sloped cutting to prevent landslides in fragile ecosystems like the Western Ghats. The absence of Public Works Department (PWD) officials at the site during the incident has also been noted, leading to questions about accountability.
Official Response and Compensation
Following the tragedy, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah expressed his deep sorrow and announced compensation of ₹5 lakh for each of the deceased workers’ families. He stated that he had spoken with District In-charge Minister Madhu Bangarappa to review the situation and ensure necessary relief measures were in place.
The PWD is currently undertaking the construction of a permanent Reinforced Cement Concrete (RCC) retaining wall in the landslide-prone area of the ghat. The initial phase of this project, budgeted at ₹435 lakh, includes special attention to improving the narrow hairpin curves along the route. Locals have submitted a memorandum to authorities, urging for a permanent solution and adequate funding to ensure safe transit through the ghat section.
An investigation has been launched to determine whether sufficient safety measures were in place at the worksite. Authorities have registered a case, and further inquiries are expected to shed light on the circumstances leading to the collapse.
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The Chenab Times News Desk
