Idukki, July 27
A lorry driver died after meeting with an accident on the Devikulam road in Munnar, in Kerala's Idukki district.
The 58-year-old lorry driver, Ganesan, a resident of Munnar, died in the accident on Saturday night, while another person in the lorry survived after the lorry skidded on the road.
The co-passenger who survived called people for help, after which Ganesan was taken to the hospital in Munnar, but could not survive.
The mishap occurred after a mudslide near the Botanical Garden in Devikulam Road.
Idukki received heavy rainfall on Saturday, resulting in waterlogging in the district. According to the Indian Meteorological Department, Munnar received 15 cm of rainfall.
Meanwhile, Idukki received 12 cm of rainfall, and the Sengulam Dam AWS and Udumbannoor AWS in Idukki district each received 10 cm of rainfall, while Peermade received 9 cm of rainfall. The meteorological department has predicted isolated heavy rainfall in parts of Kerala from July 27 to 30.
— ANI
Reader Comments
This is why we need better disaster management systems in Kerala. 15cm rainfall is becoming common but our infrastructure can't handle it. RIP to the poor driver.
As someone who frequently travels to Munnar, I've seen how reckless some drivers are on these roads during rains. But in this case, it seems nature was the culprit. Authorities must monitor vulnerable stretches better.
So sad to hear this. I visited Munnar last year and the roads were beautiful but quite narrow. With climate change bringing heavier rains, Kerala needs to invest more in road maintenance and early warning systems.
While accidents happen, I wonder if the lorry was properly maintained? Many commercial vehicles in Kerala run with poor brakes and worn tires. The RTO should conduct surprise checks especially before monsoon season.
The Botanical Garden area is known for landslides during heavy rain. Why aren't there proper retaining walls there yet? This was preventable! My prayers for Ganesan's soul ðŸ™
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