A worker picking ginger leaves the nearly dried produce wet again after Saturday’s rains in Shivamogga on Sunday (March 29). | Photo credit: SK Dinesh
Several parts of Shivamogga, Hassan and Chikkamagaluru districts received moderate to heavy rainfall on Saturday (March 28) evening. The sudden downpour disrupted daily life in all the three districts.
Roads were flooded in Shivamogga town, causing hardship to motorists. The rain, accompanied by thunder and lightning, forced two-wheeler riders to park their vehicles by the roadside and seek shelter immediately. Due to the heavy rains, the electricity supply was interrupted in many locations.
Ginger growers were among the most affected. Many spread ginger out to dry under the hot sun, only to see their efforts destroyed by sudden rains. Showers that lasted for over an hour made almost dried produce wet again. On Sunday (March 29), workers were seen picking wet ginger and covering it with plastic sheets.
Ashraf, a ginger trader at Ayanur in Shivamogga taluk, said the untimely rain caused heavy losses. “The ginger was almost dry and ready to sell, but the rain made it wet again,” he added.
Traders usually buy wet ginger from growers at around ₹50 per kg and sell the dried product at around ₹250 per kg. However, this year’s high production has kept selling prices low.
According to rainfall data for the 24 hours ending March 29 at 8:30 AM, many areas experienced good showers. In Hassan district, parts of Holenarasipura and Arkalgud taluks recorded 31 mm to 58.5 mm of rainfall. In Shivamogga district, several villages in Sorab, Sagar and Shikaripur taluks received 34 mm to 49.4 mm. In Chikkamagaluru district, parts of Mudigere and Koppa taluks recorded up to 40 mm.
Widespread rainfall resulted in a cool and cloudy Sunday – a rare and welcome relief during the usually hot days of March. Mornings remained dull and overcast in Shivamogga.
Published – 29 March 2026 19:07 IST
