Energy Minister K.J. George Gives ₹5 Lakh Relief to Family of Biker Killed by Falling Tree in Chikmagaluru

Bengaluru Express
Chikkamagaluru, June 21: Following the tragic death of Anil Pais (50) from Bilukoppa, Khandya Hobli, caused by a falling tree branch during last week’s heavy rains and strong winds, District In-charge and Energy Minister K.J. George presented a ₹5 lakh compensation cheque to his family.

The minister, displaying empathy, visited Bilukoppa village in Khandya Hobli, where the tragic incident occurred, and personally met with the grieving family to offer his condolences. He then presented the compensation cheque. Speaking on the occasion, he reassured the family, “No financial assistance can truly replace a lost life. This support is a gesture of compassion aimed at providing the family with some emotional strength during this difficult time.”

Currently, a compensation of ₹5 lakh is being provided by the District Collector. The construction work of the deceased Anil Pais’s house had come to a halt midway. Earlier, the Gram Panchayat provided funds for the construction of the house. It has now been informed that MLA Rajegowda has promised to complete the house construction using his funds.

Anil Pais had two children, both of whom are studying in government schools. It was stated that the District Collector would be requested to ensure appropriate support for their future education.

Additionally, in a recent incident near Meguru Hosathota in Koppa Taluk, a tree fell on an auto, killing the driver, Ratnakar, on the spot. A compensation cheque of ₹5 lakh will also be given to his family.

Order Issued to Remove Hazardous Trees

Following the incident, Minister K.J. George addressed the media, noting the tragic deaths caused by trees collapsing during storms and heavy rainfall in the Malenadu region. He announced a firm commitment to safety, directing forest department officials to clear any potentially dangerous trees located along roadsides to prevent further loss of life.

Also present during the visit were MLA T.D. Rajegowda, Deputy Commissioner Meena Nagaraj, Superintendent of Police Dr. Vikram Amathe, Chikkamagaluru Sub-Divisional Officer B.K. Sudarshan, Tahsildar Reshma Shetty, Khandya Hobli Revenue Inspector S.R. Vinay, Village Administrative Officer K.R. Saudha, and community leaders including Prashanth L. Shetty, B.C. Manjunath, Coffee Girish, Mohammad Hanif, Asha Narayanagowda, B.K. Madhusudhan, K.S. Ganesh, and Chandrashekhar Rai.