Persistent Landslide Risk in Punchirimattam: An Urgent Call for Policy Action
The inspection team noted that the impact of the landslide was intensified by the forested nature of the region, which caused trees to fall along with the sliding earth. Mathai explained that heavy rainfall—570 millimeters recorded over three days—played a crucial role in triggering the disaster. The rainwater accumulation led to the formation of a temporary dam at Seethammakkund, which eventually broke, releasing a devastating torrent.
Kalpetta | Wayanad – The risk of landslides continues to loom over Punchirimattam, the epicenter of the recent Wayanad disaster, according to geologist John Mathai. A scientist at the National Geophysical Research Institute, Mathai highlighted the presence of unsafe areas and cautioned against residing in the remaining houses in Punchirimattam. His warnings come after a thorough inspection of the disaster-affected area, which revealed that, although the majority of Chooralmala remains habitable, Punchirimattam faces significant danger.
Ongoing Threat and the Need for Government Action
John Mathai’s inspection, conducted with a six-member team from the National Geophysical Research Institute, focused on assessing the safety of the region. The findings indicate that further landslides could occur, particularly in areas near the river in Punchirimattam. Mathai emphasized the need for a government policy decision regarding future construction activities in these vulnerable areas.
The geologist’s observations underscore the gravity of the situation: “The area where houses are located near the river in Punchirimattam is dangerous. It is better not to reside there.” The inspection covered a stretch from Punchirimattam to Chooralmala, revealing that the landslide, which spanned 8 kilometers, was exacerbated by a dam-like structure formed at Seethammakkund due to the landslide.
The Role of Natural Factors in Amplifying the Disaster
The inspection team noted that the impact of the landslide was intensified by the forested nature of the region, which caused trees to fall along with the sliding earth. Mathai explained that heavy rainfall—570 millimeters recorded over three days—played a crucial role in triggering the disaster. The rainwater accumulation led to the formation of a temporary dam at Seethammakkund, which eventually broke, releasing a devastating torrent.
Historical Precedent and Future Precautions
This is not the first time such a disaster has struck the region. Similar landslides have occurred three times before, each time with significant consequences. The repeated nature of these events highlights the urgent need for a comprehensive assessment of the area’s stability and the implementation of preventive measures.
Mathai assured that the preliminary report of their current inspection will be submitted within ten days, providing crucial information to guide future actions. As the region grapples with the aftermath of the landslide, the government faces a critical decision: to prioritize the safety of its citizens by potentially halting further construction in high-risk areas.
The findings from John Mathai and his team offer a stark reminder of the ongoing risks in Wayanad, particularly in Punchirimattam. As the government deliberates on its next steps, the need for a clear and decisive policy to prevent further tragedies is more pressing than ever. The safety of the residents and the preservation of the environment must be at the forefront of any decisions made in the coming days.