Traffic Restored on Munnar-Devikulam Route

Fast Summary

• the Munnar-Devikulam stretch of the Kochi-Dhanushkodi National Highway reopened for traffic on Wednesday morning following debris clearing after two major landslips.
• Traffic resumed around 11:30 a.m. after debris removal by the Public Works Department’s National Highway wing.
• A district geologist had inspected the landslip site adn will submit a report to authorities with practical recommendations for mitigating similar future incidents.
• Landslips were caused by soil absorbing water during recent rains, leading to instability in the area. Heavy rainfall poses continued risks of further landslides.
• Authorities are considering imposing travel bans on this highway segment during red/orange weather alerts in Idukki district to ensure safety.
• Past plans to set up a Protection of Children from Sexual Offences court near an old Government Arts College at Munnar were dropped due to similar warnings about landslip risks in 2018 flood-hit areas nearby.

Indian Opinion Analysis
The reopening of the Munnar-Devikulam highway stretch highlights the persistent challenges posed by monsoon-induced landslides in Kerala’s hilly regions like Idukki district. While immediate measures have restored connectivity,recurring incidents emphasize the importance of long-term infrastructure resilience and effective land management practices amidst unpredictable weather patterns linked to climate change.The geologist’s forthcoming report and recommendations could provide valuable insights for permanent safeguards against future disasters, ensuring safety for both commuters and nearby residents while mitigating economic disruptions caused by road closures.

adopting proactive strategies such as travel bans during severe weather alerts also reflects authorities’ growing awareness toward preventing fatalities or major damages during crisis events-an approach that could serve as a template for other vulnerable areas across India prone to natural calamities.

Image source: Special Arrangement / The Hindu

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