District Collector inspects rain-hit areas in Ooty

Nilgiris district Collector Lakshmi Bhavya Tanneeru inspected areas in Udhagamandalam affected by recent heavy rainfall on October 6, 2026. The town received approximately 58 mm of rain over the previous two days. Tanneeru visited the mouth of Udhagamandalam Lake, where accumulated debris caused by the sudden rain. Along Boat House Road, Karnataka Garden, and Fingerpost, waterlogging was reported after the rains subsided.

The Collector emphasized that the old railway bridge over Kodappamund Channel and Boat House Road was the root cause of the inundation. Steps are being taken to install a motor system capable of pumping out water from the bridge during future heavy rains. To prepare for any emergencies, earth movers, pumps, and equipment for clearing blocked drains and tree removal are readily available.

Furthermore, the Collector announced plans for a ₹2.5 crore dredging project at Udhagamandalam Lake. Although the lake was dredged two years ago at a cost of ₹7.51 crore, water hyacinth has taken over a significant portion. The hyacinth will be removed as dredging resumes on Thursday. Tanneeru urged the public to remain indoors and avoid unnecessary travel during heavy rain, as it increases the risk of trees falling and power lines being snapped.