Bhatkal: With the forecast of high tidal waves in the Arabian Sea, the Uttara Kannada Deputy Commissioner and the District Disaster Management Authority have issued a coastal alert, urging residents to stay away from beaches and seashores on June 18 and 19, as wave heights are expected to reach between 3.7 and 4.2 meters.
The alert, based on forecasts from the India Meteorological Department (IMD) and the Karnataka State Natural Disaster Monitoring Centre (KSNDMC), covers the entire coastal stretch from Majali in Karwar to Bhatkal.
In an official press release, Deputy Commissioner Lakshmi Priya advised the public to avoid all coastal recreational areas, including rivers and other water bodies, warning of potentially dangerous conditions. She also urged parents to ensure their children stay away from the shore. All leisure and sporting activities along the coastline have been temporarily prohibited.
Furthermore, the district administration has reinforced the ongoing monsoon fishing ban, extending restrictions to small and medium-sized boats, which are now barred from entering the sea. While the seasonal fishing ban is already in place, officials have increased surveillance in light of the current alert.
Amidst the rising concern, Majlis-e-Islah-o-Tanzeem, a prominent local social organization, reported that Bhatkal Police have issued clear instructions to prevent crowds from gathering at Jali Beach, where a cargo barge recently drifted ashore. Authorities have expressed concern over large numbers of people assembling near the site despite warnings and adverse weather.
Police have explicitly cautioned that legal action will be initiated against anyone who disregards the advisory and ventures close to the sea under hazardous conditions.
Responding to the situation, Tanzeem has also issued a strong advisory, urging the public to avoid visiting Jali Beach. The organization stated that police have warned them of the need for strict enforcement if public gatherings continue. Tanzeem emphasized that the safety of citizens is paramount and that everyone must cooperate with the administration.
The organization further appealed to the community to strictly adhere to safety guidelines and respect the instructions issued by the district authorities to prevent any untoward incidents.
For emergency assistance or coastal updates, the district administration has provided the following helpline numbers:
📞 24x7 Toll-Free Number: (08382)-229857
📱 WhatsApp Number: 9483511015