Malappuram: Multiple landslides triggered by incessant heavy rainfall have forced the complete closure of the Nadukani–Parappanangadi State Highway in Kerala’s Malappuram district, disrupting traffic and prompting authorities to divert vehicles through alternative routes.
The landslides occurred between Edeypalam and Karathodu on the Malappuram–Vengara stretch, where a large portion of a hillside collapsed onto the highway, bringing down huge quantities of soil, rocks and trees. Debris also spilled into the nearby Kadalundi River, further complicating the situation.
Series of landslides hit the area
According to officials, the first landslide was followed by several more at the same location, increasing the risk to rescue personnel and motorists.
A second landslide occurred while police and Fire Force personnel were inspecting the affected stretch and assessing the damage. Fortunately, no casualties were reported at the landslide site.
Authorities have declared the area highly vulnerable and warned that further landslides could occur due to the continuing heavy rainfall.
Traffic diverted
Following the incident, traffic on the Nadukani–Parappanangadi State Highway has been completely suspended.
Vehicles travelling towards Malappuram are being diverted via Konompara until the highway is cleared and declared safe for public use.
The landslide site is located around 150 metres from Straight Path International School. Local residents recalled that a similar landslide had occurred at the same location in 2019, highlighting the area’s susceptibility to slope failures during intense monsoon spells.
Restoration work underway
Teams from the Kerala Fire and Rescue Services and the police are engaged in clearing mud, rocks and fallen trees from the highway.
Officials are also monitoring the stability of the hillside before allowing restoration work to proceed fully, as fresh rainfall continues to pose a threat.
Authorities have urged the public to avoid travelling through landslide-prone areas unless absolutely necessary and to follow official traffic advisories.
Rain-related death toll rises
Meanwhile, the impact of the ongoing monsoon has intensified across Kerala, with widespread flooding and landslides affecting several districts.
Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan said the death toll from rain-related incidents had risen to 15, while seven people remain missing.
Addressing reporters after a meeting with district collectors in Thiruvananthapuram, the Chief Minister announced an assistance of Rs 10,000 towards the funeral expenses of those who lost their lives in rain-related incidents.
He also directed the Agriculture Department to submit a proposal for enhanced compensation for crop losses. According to the government, around 165 hectares of agricultural land have been damaged, affecting 3,596 farmers across the state.
Relief operations continue
As of 9 am, the state government said 11,018 people were staying in 316 relief camps established across Kerala.
According to the Chief Minister, Malappuram reported four deaths and one missing person, while Kottayam recorded two deaths. Idukki reported two fatalities, and one death each was reported from Vizhinjam, Muthalapozhi, Kannur and Kozhikode. One person each remains missing from Vizhinjam and Muthalapozhi, while Kannur has two missing persons.
The state administration has asked district authorities to remain on high alert as heavy rainfall is expected to continue in several parts of Kerala.
