Rain may intensify at any time; people living in hilly areas warned to remain alert

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Heavy rain has returned to Kerala after a brief lull, worsening the rain-related situation in several parts of the state. Sudden downpours triggered flash floods and landslides in Malappuram, Idukki and Kottayam districts.

A landslide-like situation occurred at Pazhampillichal in Adimali, Idukki. One house was completely destroyed, several others were damaged and seven vehicles were buried under the debris. The Disaster Management Authority has assessed that there is a possibility of landslides and mudslides in the area.

Authorities have issued a warning as the threat of landslides continues in the hilly regions. Night travel has also been restricted in the hilly areas of Idukki in view of the heavy rain and landslide threat. Traffic restrictions have been imposed in Munnar as well. Authorities have also directed that adventure tourism centres be closed. On Thursday, two people died after soil collapsed onto a shed on agricultural land in Kottakkamboor, Vattavada, Idukki, following heavy rain.

Idukki is likely to receive heavy rain at any time, and people visiting the district should exercise caution, Minister Anoop Jacob said. He said the possibility of traffic congestion is high during rainfall. The minister also said that authorities would examine whether there are any unscientific practices involved in the landslides related to the National Highway construction.

Meanwhile, the death toll in the sudden flash flood at Kottappuzha near T.K. Colony in Pookkottumpadam, Nilambur, Malappuram, has risen to five. The victims were part of a group that had gone to the river to bathe and were caught in the strong current. Authorities are also checking whether more people were involved in the incident. An intensive search operation is underway in the area.

As heavy rain continues, authorities have stepped up monitoring in Kottayam, Idukki and other districts. Officials have been directed to take steps to shift people to safer locations wherever necessary. With heavy rain likely to continue in the coming days, authorities have warned people living in hilly areas to exercise extreme caution.