Boulders fall off mountain at Vagamon's Karikkad Top: How to stay safe on such roads?

Erattupetta: Massive boulders sliding downhill near Karikkad top in Vagamon road severely threatened vehicles. The incident happened at around 8.20 am on Monday. No untoward incident was reported, as no vehicles were on the road then. The boulder that hit the road shattered into many pieces, causing traffic congestion in the area. Traffic could resume only after the rocks had been removed from the road. People in the locality teamed up to move the rocks to the roadside.

Meanwhile, the boulder had slid around 200 metres downhill before falling off. Pieces of rocks were seen scattered in all parts of the road. Many boulders atop the hill are hanging loose, posing grave danger. The Teecoy village authorities visited where the boulder had been to analyse the threat. 

Roads prone to rockfalls: Precautions to take
1. Before or as you enter such roads, stay focused and scan the stretch ahead for any signs of loose rocks.
2. Avoid travelling during inclement weather, especially heavy rain or strong winds, as they increase the risk of rockfalls.
3. Check road signs that indicate landslide or rockfall-prone areas.
4. Drive at a moderate speed to have enough time to react if rocks fall.
5. Maintain a safe distance from the vehicle ahead to allow room for sudden braking.

6. Don’t stop or park your vehicle in high-risk areas, especially at the base of cliffs or steep slopes.
7. Be cautious of cracked roads, recent landslides, or disturbed vegetation, which could signal unstable areas.
8. Avoid travelling at night when visibility is low, making it harder to spot hazards.
9. Stay informed about road conditions using GPS apps or local updates.
10. Carry an emergency kit, including a flashlight, first-aid supplies, and food, if you’re stranded.
11. Ensure you have adequate travel insurance that covers road accidents or delays due to natural hazards.