Heavy rain, thunder and lightning on Saturday night caused extensive loss of horticultural crop, especially banana and betel leaves in Koppal district.

Koppal received an average rainfall of 13.5 mm.

The highest rain of 84 mm was recorded in Koppal hobli, causing severe damage to banana and betel leaves grown in large tracts in Dombralli, Katralli, Bisarahalli, Hyati, Mudargi.

Lodging of cotton and bajra in several acres of land in Betageri and Mornal village has been reported.

There were also reports of Kushtagi taluk experiencing heavy rain.

The actual loss of crop and property damaged is yet to be ascertained.

Shortage of staff

Official sources informed that there was shortage of staff to take up joint survey as majority of them have been drafted for gram panchayat election duty.

Even Ballari district experienced heavy rain on Saturday night. The average rainfall recorded in the district was 22.1 mm.

Highest rainfall was recorded in Hadagali taluk 64.6 mm followed by Ballari taluk 45.8 mm, Sandur 20.4 mm, Hagari Bommanahalli 8.8 mm, Sirguppa 8.4 mm, Hosapete 3.8 mm and Kudligi 3.1 mm.

The extent of loss due to heavy rain is yet to be ascertained.

Source - http://www.thehindu.com