Kerala: Minor mudslips above Kuthiran tunnels on NH 544 prompt joint inspection, no traffic hit

Two minor mudslips were reported on Friday above the twin Kuthiran road tunnels on National Highway 544, prompting a joint inspection by the district administration, the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) and the Forest Department. The slips occurred near the entrance and exit portals of the middle portion of the twin tunnels during continuing monsoon rain. Officials said the slips were minor and posed no immediate threat to traffic or the tunnel structure.

District Collector Shikha Surendran, MLA K. Rajan and senior NHAI officials visited the site to assess the situation after the incident was reported. Mr. Rajan said the debris had not reached the highway and was trapped between rock faces above the tunnels, ensuring that vehicular movement remained unaffected.

“There is no traffic disruption at present as the displaced soil has not fallen onto the road. The debris is lodged between the rocks above the tunnels. NHAI engineers will inspect the site, and assistance from the Forest Department will be sought to access the upper reaches of the slope,” he said.

With rain continuing in the area, officials said a detailed inspection was necessary to rule out any further risk. District Collector Shikha Surendran said the NHAI and Forest Department would jointly examine the affected slope from the top to assess its stability.

“Only after reaching the top of the slope can we determine whether there is any cause for concern. The inspection will also ascertain whether water accumulation or seepage has occurred above the affected area,” she said.

The Kuthiran twin tunnels are a vital link on the Kochi-Salem National Highway and witness heavy traffic throughout the day. Authorities said precautionary monitoring would continue in view of the ongoing monsoon. The incident highlights the vulnerability of the hilly terrain to rain-induced soil movement, though in this case the impact has been limited to the slope above the tunnel portals.

Officials emphasised that the situation is being closely watched, and the joint inspection is a precautionary measure to ensure the stability of the slope and the safety of commuters. Further updates are expected after the inspection team completes its assessment.