Kerala: Tourist spots shut down, night travel restricted due to landslides caused by heavy rains | Travel

Intense downpour and gusty winds wreaked havoc in central and south Kerala on Tuesday, causing landslides, widespread water-logging, and destruction of houses. The situation forced several people to shift to relief camps as tourist centers were closed in many districts, including Kottayam and Thiruvananthapuram. A night travel ban was imposed in the hilly areas of Idukki district.

The Indian Meteorological Department forecasted an early onset of monsoon with above-average rainfall, leading to cloudbursts in various parts of Kochi, particularly the Kalamassery locality. The heavy rainfall submerged roads, entered houses, and caused flood water to overflow, affecting hundreds of residents.

Both Kottayam and Ernakulam districts were placed on red alert by the IMD, urging authorities to take necessary precautions. With heavy rainfall predicted to continue, the district administration banned tourists from entering popular holiday destinations and urged residents living near rivers to move to safer areas.

Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan warned of potential dangers like landslides and flooding, advising people to avoid unnecessary travel and stay in secure locations. The continuous downpour disrupted normal life in various districts, with roads flooded, trees uprooted, and houses damaged.

The heavy rains also led to incidents of mudslides, boat capsizing, and damage to property, highlighting the severity of the situation. With relief camps being set up and alerts issued in several districts, authorities are working to ensure the safety of residents amidst the ongoing weather crisis in Kerala.