Runway of Idukki airstrip collapses into 150 ft depth in heavy rains

IDUKKI: The runway of Sathram airstrip in Vandiperiyar collapsed due to heavy rains in Idukki. A 100-metre portion on the airstrip’s shoulder had collapsed and fell into a depth of 150 feet.

A minor mudslide was reported in the area in 2018. The current landslide has occurred in the adjoining area. Allegations have been levelled that despite a contract to plant grass to prevent soil erosion, the works were not carried out due to the public works department’s laxity. So far, the government has spent about Rs 12 crores for the airstrip project in order to land small aircrafts for NCC cadets. The government will now have to spent several crores to repair the damaged area and restore the runway in its original condition.