A pothole-filled road at the KSRTC-Kokkale junction in Thrissur. The condition of the road that witnesses heavy traffic has worsened as monsoon intensified.
| Photo Credit: K.K. NAJEEB
A comprehensive review meeting on monsoon preparedness convened by Thrissur District Collector Arjun Pandiyan on Thursday evaluated precautionary measures and assessed the damages caused by the unseasonal rain in May.
Tahsildars presented damage reports from various taluks, revealing that four houses were completely destroyed and 194 were partially damaged due to the rain. Four deaths were reported in the district in rain-related incidents. The Collector instructed that all such data be uploaded to the official website without delay and that compensation procedures be expedited.
Relief camps and cyclone shelters across the district have been made operational and their fitness verified, the meeting was informed.
Drainage clearing
The Collector directed the National Highway (NH) Authority of India to clear drainage systems along the NH and remove obstructions to ensure smooth water flow, including cutting back overgrown vegetation. The NHAI informed that drainage clearing is in progress and will be completed at the earliest. Potholes on service roads must be filled immediately to ensure road usability, the Collector added.
Tahsildars were instructed to convene meetings with local bodies and the National Highway Authority of India to further evaluate monsoon preparedness efforts. The tribal development officer reported that food kit distribution in tribal areas would be completed within three days.
The executive engineer of the Major Irrigation department informed that water levels in dams in the district are currently low. In accordance with rule curve protocols, sluice shutters of the Chimmini and Vazhani dams were opened to release excess water. Work is ongoing to remove aquatic weeds from the dams.
The KSEB reported that the water level of the Peringalkuthu dam remains below the crest level, while water storage is low in the Sholayar dam as well. Additional executive engineer of the Irrigation department noted that desilting operations have commenced, including removal of blockages in the Vadakkancheri river and the Canolly canal and dredging has begun at Peringad.
The Subcollector has been tasked with continuous monitoring of dam storage levels and rule curve compliance.
In progress
Instructions have also been given to the the Local Self Governments department to remove dangerous roadside trees. According to the Public Works department deputy executive engineer, this work is already in progress. The height of the drainage at Ashwini Junction has been raised to prevent waterlogging.
The Kerala State Transport Project (KSTP) informed that concrete works on the Puzhakkal section of the Thrissur-Kuttippuram road will be completed and opened within two weeks.
Intensified measures
The Health department has intensified measures against dengue, hepatitis B, and leptospirosis. Disease hotspots have been mapped and communicated to panchayats. Efforts to control rodent infestation is under way. Disease prevention efforts will be reviewed every two weeks. Ambulances are in place for emergency responses. Local bodies have been directed to chlorinate drinking water sources.
The KSEB reported completion of essential maintenance on electrical lines. A quick response team has been formed to tackle emergency situations.
Published – June 12, 2025 08:36 pm IST
