Continuing monsoon rains have also brought flood-like conditions to Belagavi district, as water levels in the 8th Bridge between Kudachi and Ugar Khurd have increased significantly, causing road traffic between Karnataka and Maharashtra to become inundated with water, causing severe road accidents and damage to local roadways.
The continuous rainfall has caused water to flow above the danger level across the bridge, forcing authorities to completely suspend traffic on the Jamkhandi-Miraj State Highway, an important interstate route used by thousands of commuters every day.
The major Interstate Route Cut Off
The submerged bridge, which is located at Kudachi in Raybag Taluk, is a vital link between Karnataka and neighbouring Maharashtra. Hundreds of buses, goods vehicles, commercial trucks and private vehicles use this road daily to travel between the two states.
However, because floodwater now covers the bridge, the authorities have restricted all vehicles from moving on the bridge in order to avoid any accidents.
Motorists Forced to Take 50 km Detour
With the highway closed, commuters are now being diverted through an alternate route that adds nearly 50 kilometres to their journey.
The diversion has increased travel time and inconvenienced transport operators, daily commuters, and commercial vehicle drivers. Several motorists were seen waiting near the bridge, hopeful water levels would recede.
Police Tighten Security
Police have been stationed close to the submerged bridge to prevent motorists from attempting to cross the flooded stretch. Barricades are on both sides of the bridge, and officials are constantly monitoring the water level.
Authorities have appealed to the public not to ignore safety advice and not to attempt to cross the bridge, warning that the strong current poses a serious risk to life.
Monsoon Continues to Batter Belagavi
Over the last few days, Belagavi district has been experiencing heavy rainfall, and river and stream levels are rising rapidly. Some low-lying places are flooded, and the administration is on the watch for flooding in places vulnerable to it.
Officials are closely monitoring weather conditions and river levels. If heavy rainfall continues, additional precautionary measures may be taken to ensure public safety.
The district administration has advised residents living near rivers and flood-prone areas to remain vigilant and follow up on alerts from local authorities.
In northern Karnataka, the situation once again highlights the impact of the southwest monsoon on infrastructure and transportation, where several roads and bridges can become vulnerable during periods of intense rainfall.
They said traffic on the Jamkhandi–Miraj State Highway will be resumed once the water levels recede and the bridge is declared safe for public use.
