Vagamon routes have become accident prone: Safe travel tips for tourists

Motor accidents have become rampant on the Vagamon route, which is relied upon by hundreds of travellers daily. The Moolamattam – Vagamon road, constructed around a quarter of a century ago, hasn’t been widened yet, although the Kanjar – Vagamon road was built after that. The road is narrow at many places, and the sides are overgrown with bushes and thickets. Passengers travelling in these routes complain that they lack proper visibility as the sides of the Kanjar and Moolamattam roads to Vagamon are covered in thickets. 

There are two roads from Thodupuzha to Vagamon via Pullikanam. One is the road to Pullikanam via Thodupuzha – Kanjar – Koovapally – Poothed, and the other is via Thodupuzha – Moolamattam – Ilappally – Edad. Both these roads are too narrow and haven’t been widened yet. Even a small vehicle like an autorickshaw struggles at times to make way for other vehicles at some spots on these roads. 

Vehicles often get caught in severe traffic blockades for hours on these routes on Sundays and other holidays. Meanwhile, travellers from Northern Kerala mostly rely on these roads to reach Vagamon. Besides, these roads lack protective walls at many points. Moreover, the road's width has further diminished as thickets have grown on both sides. Vehicles are unable to make way for vehicles coming from the opposite side, as thickets are overgrown even in the drainage channels on both sides. 

The drivers are afraid the vehicle might get stuck in the drainage channel if they move too far to the sides. Dangerous curves are another factor contributing to the increasing number of accidents on these routes. The locals and tourists have been urging the authorities to increase the road's width and to build protective walls and fences at certain spots to reduce accidents.

Tips for safe journey
1) If possible, avoid visiting during peak holiday seasons as both roads and the tourist spots here can be extremely crowded. If you can't avoid the trip, travel early in the morning or late in the evening. However, exercise caution while driving in foggy conditions. 
2)  If you are not experienced in driving through Kerala's hilly roads, be extra careful as there are sharp slopes, bends and turns at many junctures.

3) Avoid night travel if not familiar with the routes
4) Check the weather forecast and road updates before starting the journey
5) If you are driving two-wheelers, do not compromise on helmets