Huge rock on road side poses threat in Mullankolli; people urge for swift action, in vain

Mullankolli: Motor vehicle accidents have become common at Vengassery junction in the Mullankolli – Padichira – Marakadavu – Perikallur route, renovated after so many delays and protests. A car that was going to Shashimala side hit a rock on the roadside the other night.

People in the locality say that this is the fifth such accident in recent times. Locals have been urging authorities to remove the rock that protrudes into the road precariously, but no action has been taken yet. The road was renovated under the Bharat Mala project of the central government. 

The spot where the road had caved in near the accident-prone area isn’t safe. The contractors are not willing to secure the roadsides, blaming it on the rains. Tying a ribbon at the spot that has a steep slope and a curve is the only warning sign installed by the authorities.

School students often walk near this crater that is more than 15 feet deep. There is no space on the sides to move in case a vehicle passes through the road. Vehicles too are unable to overtake in this congested spot. Besides, the roads in Illichuvadu and Marakadavu areas are completely ruined. 

Deep potholes have appeared on most parts of the road in Vazhakavala. Besides, the road is in a dilapidated state between Marakadavu Thonikadavu and Perikkaloor. The people have been urging to complete the maintenance works according to the contract and to take appropriate measures to mitigate the risk of accidents in this area now that the rains have subsided.