Kattappana: The newly completed Kattappana-Kuttikkanam stretch of the Hill Highway has run into trouble with the monsoon, as more than a dozen soil slippages have been reported along the route since the rains began. At several points, soil and loose stones have spilled onto the carriageway, particularly around sharp bends, raising safety concerns for motorists.

Most of the slippages have occurred between Chappath and Kuttikkanam, with major incidents reported at 12 locations and smaller ones at several other spots. The fact that the problems have surfaced soon after the completion of the highway has also fuelled allegations of lapses in its construction.

The cutting of steep slopes alongside the road without adequate retaining walls is being blamed for the recurring slippages. Several stretches with large exposed earth slopes remain vulnerable to further slides, particularly during heavy rain. Though soil that has fallen onto the tarmac has been cleared at many locations, loose earth and stones continue to lie close to the carriageway and leave motorists exposed to risk.

The road’s drainage system has also come under scrutiny, amid complaints that drains remain incomplete at several locations. The absence of crash barriers along sharp bends overlooking deep ravines is another concern, while overgrown vegetation has obscured warning signs at some places, making them difficult for motorists to spot.

The concerns assume added significance with the Sabarimala pilgrimage season approaching, when the route is expected to carry a heavy volume of traffic, including pilgrims from other districts. Demands are mounting for urgent measures to clear the remaining soil and stones, secure vulnerable slopes, complete the drainage works and install crash barriers at dangerous locations.