Soaring temperature leaves Kodagu scorching

Kodagu district is experiencing a rise in mercury level for the past week. A slight rise in the humidity level and soaring mercury has the district scorching.

People are experiencing a harsh summer from 8 am in the morning. Even after 10 pm, the mercury level fails to come down. People prefer to remain indoors during the afternoon.

As Kodagu is the land of coffee, the labourers who work in coffee estates are feeling the heat of rising mercury level.

“We are experiencing harsh weather, be it rain, or cold or scorching heat. We have to earn for our livelihood amid these adversities,” said the labourers.

The average temperature in Kushalnagar, Somwarpet, Shanivarasanthe, Kodlipete, Hebbale, Shirangala and Torenoor reaches 35-degree Celsius towards noon.

The temperature has risen in Napoklu, Bhagamandala and Talacauvery area as well. While walking on the road, people search for a tree to get some shade. The fans run throughout the day in households and offices.

Compared to last year, the temperature and humidity have increased this year. For the past week, the temperature in the district has been 31-degree Celsius to 33-degree Celsius.

The district had experienced untimely rain in the month of February. This had helped the coffee plants to blossom and berries have been formed. Now, the plants require rain.

“If we fail to experience rain, we have to irrigate coffee plantations. The Robusta coffee plants require rain now,” said growers.

Rise in demand for juices

To beat the heat, people have been turning towards cold drinks, juices and fruits.

The sale of watermelon, tender coconut and sugarcane juice has increased. The fruit vendors in Madikeri are making brisk business.

The untimely rain in January and February had filled the lakes inside the forest. As a result, wild animals are getting water to quench their thirst.