ANKOLA: A devastating hill collapse near Shiroor in Ankola taluk has claimed seven lives and left several others trapped, as heavy rains continue to batter North Karnataka. The incident occurred on Tuesday afternoon on the national highway, causing significant disruption to traffic and prompting a major rescue operation.


Uttar Kannada MP Vishweshwar Hegde Kageri confirmed the death toll, stating that the information was obtained from district authorities. "The situation is grave, and we're doing everything possible to rescue those still trapped," Kageri told reporters in Karwar.


According to local officials, more than 15 people, including five members of a single family, are believed to be trapped under the debris. Rescue teams have already recovered the body of 37-year-old Shanti Naik, with efforts ongoing to reach others.


The collapse has caused extensive damage to vehicles parked along the highway. In a particularly alarming incident, a gas tanker rolled into the nearby Gangavali River, with its driver and cleaner reportedly swept away by the current.


The national highway, a crucial link between Karwar, Goa, Ankola, and destinations like Kerala, Mangalore, and Kumta, has been completely closed due to the incident. Thousands of travelers are stranded, with officials estimating it could take over 24 hours to clear the road.


Local administration, fire department, and police personnel have established a base at the site to coordinate rescue efforts. However, persistent rain is hampering operations, and there are concerns about further collapses.


The hill in question had been partially cut to accommodate the ongoing four-lane highway expansion project. Environmental experts are now questioning whether proper precautions were taken, given the area's vulnerability to heavy rains.

The local weather department has warned of more rain in the coming days, adding urgency to the rescue and clearance operations.