File image of a Kuthiran tunnel in Thrissur
| Photo Credit: K K MUSTAFAH
The Thrissur District Disaster Management Authority (DDMA) has ordered a series of precautionary measures to ensure the safety of commuters following the recent surface mudslip near the Kuthiran twin tunnels on national highway 544 in Kerala
District Collector and DDMA chairperson Shikha Surendran issued the directions based on a preliminary report submitted by a team of scientists from the Kerala Forest Research Institute (KFRI), led by its director, Kannan C.S. Warrier.
The expert team, comprising scientists S. Sandeep, Pawan Wable and P. Balakrishnan, inspected the site after the Collector sought a scientific assessment of the slope.
According to the KFRI report, no major cracks or signs of deep-seated slope failure were detected. However, the scientists cautioned that continuous rainwater seeping through fissures in the steep rocky slope could dislodge loose rocks and soil, posing a risk of debris falling onto the highway.
Based on the report, the Collector directed the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) to immediately remove loose rocks and soil from the slope and undertake permanent stabilisation measures. These include installing rockfall protection nets, safety fencing and rock-bolting systems to prevent boulders from falling onto the road.
The order also directs that vegetation on the upper slope should not be removed unnecessarily, as it helps prevent soil erosion. Blockages in drainage channels above the tunnel portals must be cleared immediately to prevent rainwater accumulation and reduce the risk of further slope instability.
The district administration has also ordered continuous monitoring of the hillside to detect fresh cracks, tilting trees or other signs of instability. Traffic restrictions should be imposed immediately if any emergency situation arises.
Detailed technical assessment
The NHAI project director has been directed to complete a detailed technical assessment through experts, implement slope stabilisation measures without delay and submit a compliance report.
The Divisional Forest Officer, Thrissur, has been instructed to extend full cooperation and provide necessary access to the NHAI and technical teams, as the affected hillside falls under the Forest Department’s jurisdiction.
The directions have been issued under the provisions of the Disaster Management Act as part of the district administration’s efforts to minimise the risk of further mudslips during the ongoing monsoon.
Published – August 11, 2026 03:09 pm IST
