Mangaluru: With the India Meteorological Department (IMD) issuing a red alert for the coastal belt and following incessant rains the district administrations of Dakshina Kannada, Udupi and Uttara Kannada on Sunday declared a holiday for schools and anganwadis as a precautionary measure. In Dakshina Kannada, Deputy Commissioner HV Darshan announced a holiday on August 18 for all anganwadis, government, aided and private schools in the district. He also appealed to parents to ensure that children do not venture near rivers, lakes, low-lying areas or the seashore. Fishermen have been strictly advised not to venture into the sea. Officials at both district and taluk levels have been directed to remain at their headquarters and respond promptly to emergencies. In Udupi district, Deputy Commissioner Swaroopa TK declared a holiday for anganwadis, government, aided and private primary and high schools, as well as pre-university and ITI students. However, colleges will function as usual with certain precautions. Institutions have been instructed not to make attendance compulsory and to ensure students’ safe travel. Principals have also been directed to avoid using weak buildings for classes and to make up for the loss of classes by holding extra sessions on weekends. In Uttara Kannada, Deputy Commissioner Lakshmi Priya issued an order declaring a holiday on August 18 for anganwadis, primary and high schools, and pre-university colleges in Karwar, Ankola, Kumta, Honnavar, Bhatkal, Sirsi, Siddapur, Yellapur, Joida, Haliyal and Dandeli. The DC instructed education department officials to strictly enforce the directive and to adjust for lost classes on later dates. Meanwhile, disaster management authorities across the three districts have set up control rooms to monitor the situation. Residents have been urged to stay away from risky areas, and report emergencies to the respective helplines.
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