Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru
Mangaluru, Aug 5: A fresh landslide occurred at Kettikal hill near Thiruvailu School in Vamanjoor on Tuesday, with huge boulders and soil rolling onto the road.
A similar landslide had occurred at the same spot a few days ago, when soil from the hill had fallen onto the highway. Following that incident, only one-way traffic was allowed on the stretch. Continuous rainfall over the past two days triggered another landslide, with a large quantity of soil and rocks collapsing around Tuesday afternoon. Cracks have also developed on the hill, raising fears of further landslides.
Kettikal witnessed multiple landslides at different locations during last year's heavy rains. At the time, the Deputy Commissioner had directed officials of the National Highways Authority to take adequate precautionary measures at locations where excavation had been carried out improperly.
However, locals alleged that no proper preventive measures were taken near Thiruvailu School. They claimed that the continued unscientific excavation of the hill has led to recurring landslides. They also pointed out that there are houses on top of the hill, putting residents there at serious risk.