Overhead tank poses danger to local residents and school in Kannur's Pothuvachery

Thalassery: Fear looms large over a cluster of homes and a local school in Pothuvachery, Paral, as a massive overhead water storage tank weakened by a soil slip now poses a grave threat to residents and students alike.

The tank, with a capacity of 20,000 litres, was built five years ago by the municipality despite strong opposition from local residents. On June 6, heavy rains triggered a soil slip that eroded the ground beneath the tank, endangering nearby structures. The erosion extended up to the sunshade of 'Indras', the home of V Reshmi.

Following an inspection, municipal officials advised Reshmi and her family to vacate the premises. Since then, Reshmi, her elderly parents, and children have been forced to take shelter at their ancestral home in Panoor. Her son, a student of the nearby Pothuvachery West LP School, has been unable to attend classes since their displacement.

Acting on Reshmi's complaint, the District Collector issued a directive on July 11 to the Thalassery Municipal Secretary, invoking Sections 33 and 34 of the Disaster Management Act. The order mandates steps to safeguard the threatened properties. However, Reshmi alleges that no follow-up action has been taken so far.

The looming risk has put at least five families on edge. Many of the homes include bedridden elderly residents and families are left uncertain about where to turn in case of the tank collapsing.

The Pothuvachery West LP School also faces danger due to the tank’s precarious position. Of particular concern is the school’s toilet facility, located alarmingly close to the structure. Teachers have joined the chorus of voices demanding the immediate relocation of the tank, citing serious safety concerns.

Residents also allege that no soil testing was carried out prior to constructing such a massive tank in the area