Keralam heavy rains: MeT department issues' orange' alert for Idukki, night travel in hilly regions prohibited
Idukki, June 7
An orange alert for heavy rainfall has been declared in Keralam's Idukki district on Sunday, with the India Meteorological Department signalling that authorities must maintain a high state of readiness for potential landslides and mudslides in hilly regions.
An orange alert from the IMD signifies "be prepared" for heavy to very heavy rainfall (typically between 64.5 mm to 204.4 mm in 24 hours)
Additionally, nighttime travel has also been strictly prohibited in mountainous regions during the evening to safeguard the public against natural disasters.
District Collector Dineshan Cheruvatt, in an official letter said, "In view of the heavy rainfall being experienced in the district and the prevailing possibility of landslides and mudslides in hilly areas, it has been found necessary to regulate night-time travel in mountainous regions to prevent disaster situations and ensure public safety."
"Therefore, in exercise of the powers vested in me under Section 25(2)(a) and Section 26(2) of the Disaster Management Act, 2005, and in accordance with Sections 34(b) and 34(c) of the said Act, night travel through the hilly regions of Idukki district is hereby prohibited with immediate effect from 07:00 PM to 06:00 AM," he added.
Further, under Section 30(2)(v) of the Disaster Management Act, 2005, the District Police Chief, Sub-Divisional Magistrates of Idukki, the Regional Transport Officer, and the Tahsildars serving as Incident Commanders in Idukki district are hereby directed to ensure the strict implementation of this order, the DM ordered.
The IMD on June 4 declared that the Southwest Monsoon had arrived in Keralam on June 4, with weather conditions becoming increasingly favourable for its advance across the state and adjoining regions.
The Met Department on Sunday said that strong surface winds speed reaching 40-50 Kmph very likely to prevail over Kerala and Lakshadweep from June 7 to June 9.
"Heavy rainfall (7cm to 11cm in 24 hours) to very heavy rainfall (12cm to 20cm in 24 hours) is very likely to occur at one or two places in Kerala from June 7 to june 9 and heavy rainfall (7cm to 11cm in 24 hours) is very likely to occur at isolated places in Kerala from June 10 to June 13 and over Lakshadweep on June 7 and June 8," IMD said.
— ANI
Reader Comments
As someone who drives through Idukki regularly for work, I welcome this ban. The roads near Vagamon and around the dam area are terrifying even in daylight during monsoon. Many tourist vehicles ignore warnings and get stuck. This is a sensible precaution. Hope the authorities also ensure that essential supplies reach the district without disruption.
Good that the IMD is giving early warnings now. But I wish the infrastructure in hilly areas was better prepared for these rains. The drains get clogged so easily. Also, what about the people living in landslide-prone zones? They need proper rehabilitation, not just alerts. The monsoon is here early this year, let's hope the disaster management teams are truly ready. 🌧️
Classic Keralam monsoon - it either pours or it doesn't. But this orange alert is serious. I hope the tourists who come to Thekkady and Munnar during this time understand the risks. Many think they can drive through puddles and landslides won't happen. The collector's order is strict, and it should be. People often ignore these warnings until something happens. Let's learn from past tragedies and stay safe.
While I appreciate the proactive measures, I worry about the enforcement. Banning night travel is fine on paper, but what about ambulances and emergency services? The Disaster Management Act allows exceptions, but in practice, will they be able to move freely? Also, the district should set up helplines and relief shelters properly. Just issuing orders isn't enough. Need proper coordination with local panchayats. Stay safe, Keralam! 💙
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