Retaining wall along highway collapses due to continuous rain in Sakleshpur taluk

HASSAN: Amidst the continuous rain, a 200-mt length of a retaining wall on National Highway-75 gave way near Kollahalli in Sakleshpur taluk on Wednesday.

The four-lane highway stretch was constructed after filling earth to a height of about 25 feet. It is alleged that the retaining wall collapsed due to unscientific and substandard work.

Traffic was being allowed on only one lane on one carriageway.

Sakleshpur Assistant Commissioner Shruthi said the retaining wall collapsed due to incessant rain. “As of now, a section of one lane is blocked for traffic while the other lane is open. If there is any further deterioration in the situation, we will have to divert traffic.

On Tuesday too, a section of the highway had collapsed near Gulagalale while there was a landslide near Kollahalli. the Assistant Commissioner said, “The NHAI officials immediately visited the spot, took preventive measures and diverted traffic. We have stationed excavators to clear tree falls if there is any, near Bisle and relief centres have been identified in case of flood situation in towns.

At Maranahalli in Sakleshpur taluk, a minor bridge was washed away after heavy rain. The bridge was built only two months ago to provide access to a house belonging to an aged couple.