Mangaluru: Following a red alert issued by the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) for Dakshina Kannada district for the next 24 hours, Badriya Juma Masjid in Kokkada, Belthangady taluk, has decided to open its doors round the clock to assist those affected by the floods.

Masjid President Hyder MS emphasised that extending support in difficult times is a humanitarian act. “We do not look at caste, creed and religion, while in crisis. We are all humans,” he told the Deccan Herald.

The mosque can accommodate nearly 100 people and has a madrasa that can provide additional shelter. “We are prepared to set up tents if needed,” he added.

A message has been circulated on WhatsApp since Monday, informing people that they can use the facility at the mosque in case of distress.

Hyder pointed out the significant threat posed by the rising water levels of the River Nethravathi, particularly to those living near riverbanks. Residents of Dharmasthala, Nidle, Patrame, Shishila, and Arasinamakki can contact the mosque members for assistance, the mosque president shared.

Expressing their commitment to communal harmony, Hyder recalled that the mosque had extended help during the COVID-19 pandemic as well. He also noted that people from various castes and religions participated in the mosque’s renovation three years ago.

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Mumbai (PTI): Two persons suffered injuries after a fire broke out in the kitchen of a hotel in south Mumbai on Sunday afternoon, civic officials said.

The incident occurred around 4.30 pm at the Colaba Social Bar and Restaurant located on Boman Beharam Marg behind the Taj Hotel, they said.

A fire erupted in the kitchen area of the hotel located in the basement of a five-storey building, a civic official said.

The fire brigade sent a team to the spot and brought the blaze under control by 4.56 pm.

Two persons sustained injuries in the accident. One of them, Sunil Singh (28), suffered five per cent burns and took discharge against medical advice, while the other victim, Subrat Barai (35), has been admitted to Saint George Hospital with 15 per cent burns.

Barai is said to be in a stable condition, officials said, adding that the cause of the fire is being ascertained.