SCHOOLS CLOSED TODAY; TALACAUVERY GETS 230 INCHES RAINFALL;

Madikeri August 17, 2006

Schools in Kodagu remained closed today as the fierce wind and rain fall are creating havoc. The district administration declared only a days holiday today as there is a state sponsored “ Samudayadatta Shaale” programme tomorrow.

Talacauvery recorded 230 inches of rain fall till yesterday and Madikeri received 105 inches.Somwarpet received 82 inches and Virajpet 78.87 inches. Harangi reservoir is maintaining its maximum level of 2859 feet.

Shanthalli at the foothills of Pushpagiri recorded 17 inches of rainfall.

Whereas agriculturists are worried as excess of rainfall has swept away their paddy crop in many places. Coffee and pepper have also developed deceases related to moisture in many parts.

Other agriculture activities are going on in full swing.

SIX SENTENCED

Six persons involved in removing semi precious stone in forest area are fined and sentenced by a court here.

Accused B.E.Mandanna, T.S.Dore, P.Aiyappa, N.Haridas, M.Y.razak and A.K.Cauveriappa were caught by the forest department, removing semi precious stones from Pattighat reserve forest at Bhagamandala during 2003. the court has sentenced simple imprisonment of one year each to six accused and pay a fine of rupees two thousand each. Two more accused were released due to lack of evidence to prove their guilt.