Idukki, 30 July (H.S.): A fresh landslip at Cheeyappara in Idukki district disrupted traffic on the Kochi–Dhanushkodi National Highway highlighting growing concerns over road safety in the rain-hit hill district amid continuing monsoon showers.
The incident occurred around noon near the Cheeyappara Waterfalls on the Neriamangalam–Adimali stretch when a large quantity of soil and debris suddenly slid onto the highway. A vehicle approaching the spot narrowly escaped being caught in the landslip, with its occupants avoiding what could have been a serious accident.
The landslip completely blocked the busy highway, bringing traffic to a standstill for nearly two hours. Officials and workers launched immediate clearance operations, removing the debris and reopening the road to traffic by around 2 p.m.
The latest incident has renewed concerns among local residents over the safety of vulnerable stretches along the highway, particularly where widening works are in progress. Residents alleged that sufficient protective measures have not been put in place at landslip-prone locations despite repeated warnings. They pointed out that extensive excavation carried out as part of the highway widening project has weakened hill slopes in certain sections.
The road widening project between Neriamangalam and Valara had earlier been temporarily stayed by the High Court before construction resumed following government intervention and legal clearance. Locals have urged authorities and the contractor to strengthen slope protection measures to prevent further incidents during the ongoing monsoon.
With heavy rainfall continuing across Idukki, residents warned that more landslips cannot be ruled out and advised motorists to exercise extreme caution, particularly during night travel. They also cautioned against parking vehicles along the roadside near the popular Cheeyappara Waterfalls, describing the area as highly vulnerable during periods of intense rain.
Meanwhile, traffic restrictions remain in force near the CSI Church in Munnar, where movement has been limited to a single lane after cracks appeared on the road and a recent landslip occurred near the Head Works Dam. The restrictions were imposed following the Orange Alert issued for Idukki district.
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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman
