Mangaluru: Newly appointed Deputy Commissioner (DC) of Dakshina Kannada district, Darshan H.V., has stated that his first priority will be to ensure preparedness for the ongoing monsoon season. Speaking to Udayavani, he emphasised that public safety, effective disaster response, and coordinated development will guide his administrative approach.

“My topmost priority is addressing issues related to the monsoon. Preventive measures must be in place to avoid natural calamities,” said the DC. He added, “This is my first posting in the district. I will dedicate myself to the development of Dakshina Kannada and work in consultation with outgoing DC Mullai Muhilan to understand local needs and challenges.”

Monsoon preparedness first

DC Darshan H.V. said his administration will identify flood-prone and landslide-prone areas based on past data and implement mitigation plans accordingly. “Our aim is to prevent loss of life and property through early interventions,” he assured.

Understanding ground realities

Darshan acknowledged that it typically takes a few weeks to understand the terrain and administrative dynamics of a new district. “In a district like Dakshina Kannada, it might take longer. I will begin by understanding the functioning of various departments, including Smart City, Revenue, PWD, and NHAI, and will hold review meetings with officers from each department,” he said.

Coordinated governance

The DC expressed confidence in working as a team with other district officials. “Police Commissioner Sudhir Kumar Reddy is a senior and experienced officer, SP Arun has an excellent track record, and Zilla Panchayat CEO Dr Anand is my batchmate. With mutual coordination, we will function as a united team,” he stated.

Law and order, illegal activities under scanner

Darshan H.V. said that the current law-and-order situation in the district is stable. However, activities such as illegal sand mining and unauthorised stone quarrying will be closely monitored and strictly dealt with in coordination with police and revenue authorities.

Public interaction and accessibility

The DC assured that he will allocate time for public meetings and grievance redressal. “Listening to citizens will help me understand ground realities and collect meaningful suggestions for the district’s development,” he said.

About DC Darshan H.V.

Hailing from Chitradurga, Darshan H.V. completed his education in Hassan, Chikkamagaluru, and Davanagere, and pursued an engineering degree in Bengaluru. He cleared the UPSC Civil Services Examination in 2016 with an All India Rank of 48 and emerged as the state topper. His prior assignments include stints in Raichur (as a probationary officer), Sagar (as Sub-Divisional Magistrate), CEO roles in Kolar and Belagavi Zilla Panchayats, Commissioner of Tumakuru City Corporation, Director at ITBT Department, and a senior tax officer in the Commercial Taxes Department.

Reported by Bharath Shettigar