A deadly landslide at a tunnel construction site in Kerala’s Wayanad district has raised serious safety concerns. The accident claimed one life. Seven people are still missing, while several others were injured.
Kerala Environment and Climate Change Minister Sunny Joseph said the tragedy could have been prevented. He stated that Wayanad District Collector Meghashree D. R. had ordered a temporary halt to tunnelling on June 20. The order asked officials to remove the large amount of soil dumped after excavation before work continued.
According to the minister, the warning was not followed. The accumulated soil later collapsed and triggered the landslide. He described the incident as a manmade disaster and said the government is investigating possible lapses.
The 8.2-km tunnel project is being implemented by Konkan Railway Corporation. Dilip Buildcon is constructing the tunnels, while Royal Construct is building the approach roads and bridges. The project aims to improve road connectivity between Kozhikode and Wayanad.
Earlier this year, the Supreme Court allowed the project to proceed. However, it also made clear that any environmental violations during construction could still face legal action.