A boulder tumbled onto Gap Road in Idukki — part of the Munnar-Bodimettu stretch of the Kochi-Dhanushkodi National Highway — on Wednesday morning, prompting renewed concerns over travel safety during the monsoon.
Fortunately, no vehicles were on the road at the time of the incident, averting any injuries or fatalities. Officials reported only minor damage to the road surface, and the boulder was cleared the same day.
This marks the fourth such incident in just two months, adding urgency to the warnings previously issued by Devikulam tahsildar. In a recent report to District Collector V. Vigneshwari, the tahsildar highlighted severe landslip risks and suggested temporary traffic bans on the stretch during the rainy season.
Authorities have already enforced restrictions such as banning night travel and roadside parking on Gap Road when red or orange weather alerts are active in the district.
“There’s a high probability of more rocks falling, especially during rain. Many tourist vehicles still use this route regularly, making it critical to implement safety measures,” said a senior Revenue department official.
With tourist flow increasing and unpredictable weather conditions, officials stress the need for caution and possible route diversions to prevent any future tragedies.