Thiruvananthapuram, 08 July (H.S.):
The Kerala government on Wednesday ordered a comprehensive investigation into the landslip at the twin tunnel project site in Kalladi, Wayanad, that claimed the lives of three workers and left several others trapped or injured.
Announcing the decision after a Cabinet meeting, Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan said the incident was discussed in detail and the government had decided to launch two separate investigations. The first probe will focus on identifying the exact cause of the landslip, while the second will examine whether the project authorities violated environmental regulations or failed to comply with guidelines issued by the Central government during the execution of the project.
The Chief Minister said the inquiry would determine whether all mandatory safety and environmental norms had been followed during construction. Any lapses or violations, if established, would be dealt with in accordance with the law.
Satheesan also made it clear that construction work at the twin tunnel project would remain suspended until experts assess the stability of the area and certify that it is safe to resume operations. The government, he said, would not permit work to restart unless the possibility of further accidents was ruled out.
The landslip struck the construction site at Kalladi amid heavy rainfall, trapping several workers inside the project area. Three workers lost their lives in the accident, while rescue teams managed to pull nine others to safety. Several people sustained injuries and are undergoing treatment.
Rescue personnel continue to search for five workers who remain missing. The operation is being carried out under difficult conditions due to persistent rain and unstable terrain, with multiple agencies working together to clear debris and locate those trapped.
The tragedy has raised serious concerns over safety standards and environmental compliance at major infrastructure projects in ecologically sensitive regions such as Wayanad.
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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman
