The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a red alert for Idukki district for Sunday and Monday, indicating the likelihood of extremely heavy rainfall. In response to this alert, the district administration has instructed the District Tourism Promotion Council (DTPC) and Tourism Department to implement restrictions on tourism activities within the district.
As part of these restrictions, the popular Kolukkumalai jeep safari will be suspended for both Sunday and Monday. The administration has also indicated that access to other DTPC destinations in Idukki, such as the Cantilever Glass Bridge at Wagamon and DTPC-operated boating services, may be halted if adverse weather conditions, including high winds and heavy rainfall, persist.
In addition to these tourism restrictions, the district administration has also imposed a ban on mining and quarrying activities for the specified period. This ban is intended to minimize the potential for landslides and other hazards associated with heavy rainfall.
To ensure the safety of residents and visitors, the district administration has established control rooms across various taluks within Idukki, including Thodupuzha, Idukki, Udumbanchola, Devikulam, and Peerumade. Tahsildars, or revenue officials, have been instructed to compile lists of individuals who may need to be relocated to safer areas in case of emergencies.
Over the past 24 hours, Idukki taluk has recorded the highest rainfall at 39.4 mm, followed by Peerumade taluk with 30.5 mm, Thodupuzha taluk with 31.02 mm, Devikulam taluk with 15.2 mm, and Udumbanchola taluk with 1 mm of rainfall. The district administration is closely monitoring the situation and will take further action as necessary to ensure the safety and well-being of the community.