Protection wall collapses in Kannur, roads at risk as torrential rains lash high range

Alakkodu: Heavy run-off water from the mountains, triggered by the relentless rains lashing the Udayagiri panchayat, has caused severe damage to roads and protection walls at two locations. The forceful gush of water also dealt a heavy blow to the farming sector.

Serious damages were reported near Mampoyil on the Mampoyil–Josegiri–Mannathikundu PMSGY Road and at Karikayam on the Manakkadavu–Mampoyil Road. A 20-foot-high protection wall along the Mampoyil–Josegiri–Mannathikkundu Road collapsed into farmland below, damaging a 25-metre stretch. The remaining part of the structure, along with the adjoining road, is also under threat of collapse.

Farmlands, including arecanut trees and plantains belonging to Nedumpathalil Linto, were destroyed in the incident. Local residents alleged that lapses in construction had been pointed out during the building of the road itself. Meanwhile, the caving-in of the roadside at Karikkayam on the Manakkadavu–Mampoyil Road has put that stretch in danger as well. Vehicles are now plying the area with extreme caution. The region has been experiencing heavy downpours over the past few days.

Flooding in Chapparapadavu town
In Chapparapadavu, heavy rains in the early hours of yesterday caused water to gush into the town. Traders had shifted their stock from shops the previous night, preventing major losses. The floodwater receded only by morning.