THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Due to intense rainfall and strong winds, trees have once again fallen along the Ponmudi road, leading to significant traffic disruptions. The inclement weather conditions have caused damage to roads, electric posts and lines. Consequently, authorities have imposed a travel ban to Ponmudi as a precautionary measure against potential landslides.
Currently, only access to Golden Valley is permitted, but the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has strongly advised minimizing travel in the region.
Notably, sizeable trees were uprooted near the Ponmudi police station and in Golden Valley. Yesterday, a massive tree fell on Hairpin NO-3, severely impeding traffic and causing a prolonged electricity outage. It took the efforts of the fire and rescue brigade to clear the road by cutting down the fallen tree.
Furthermore, there have been numerous instances of trees collapsing along the roadside, resulting in inconvenience and difficulties for local residents. The lack of KSRTC service buses on many days has added to their troubles. Moreover, regular KSRTC services have been abruptly canceled without prior notice, causing further inconvenience.
There are also allegations that the Ponmudi panchayat has not adhered to the district administration’s instructions to remove hazardous trees along the roadside before the onset of the rainy season.
The problems in the region stem from a lack of coordination between the Public Works Department, Forest Department, Tourism Department and the panchayat.
It is alleged that neglect from the state government poses a barrier to the development of Ponmudi, a popular tourist destination near the capital city of Thiruvananthapuram, despite its ability to attract a substantial number of domestic and international visitors.
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