'Kodagu landslides not man made'

A study report generated by a team of scientists from Kodagu Krishi Vijnanigala Vedike and College of Forestry, Ponnampet, has stated that the landslides in Kodagu are not man made. The disaster was caused by an earthquake, incessant rains and over storage of water in Harangi reservoir.

Addressing reporters in Madikeri on Friday, forum president K R Babu Raghavan said that the report is based on the spot survey and satellite imaging, which have highlighted the factors that led to landslides.

An earthquake which shook Kodagu one month prior to the flash floods and landslides, was the main reason for the disaster. The earth’s crust developed cracks following the earthquake, which further resulted in the loosening of the soil. Following an increase in the moisture content of the soil, there was a landslide, summerised the report. Over storage of water in Harangi river, further aggravated the situation in the form of flood.

Geologist Dr Ravikumar said a rainfall of 3,463 mm has been recorded between June and September end, in Kodagu. This is 59% more compared to normal rainfall. During August 13-19, there was a rainfall on 594 mm, he pointed out. Vedike vice president Subrahmanya, secretary Dr Satish, members G M Devagiri and Dr Shobha were present.