Heavy rain continues to lash Kodagu, plunging Madikeri into bitter cold and persistent fog that has disrupted life.
Once famed for monsoon tourism, Madikeri is now seeing a decline in visitors due to relentless rain and cold, hurting livelihoods of traders, hoteliers, and street vendors.
Roads are damaged, cutting vehicle traffic.
Businesses are losing revenue.
Hospitals are reporting rising cases of cold-related illnesses.
The elderly are struggling, firewood is scarce, and charcoal prices have soared to Rs 50-60/kg.
Moisture is damaging equipment, papers, and household items. With 80+ inches of rain since January (Madikeri alone recording 110 inches), residents fear the coming months. Farmers are reporting blight in coffee and other crops, students are reluctant to attend school, and locals are praying for a break in the weather – even just a few days of sunshine.
