Ernakulam Maintains High Alert as Malankara Dam Hits Red Level After Heavy Downpours

Rising River Levels and Dam Management

Authorities in Ernakulam district have issued warnings for residents living near the Muvattupuzha and Thodupuzha rivers. Despite a break in the heavy rainfall on Monday, August 3, water levels in these arteries persist above warning thresholds. At the Malankara dam, the water reached a red-alert level of 41.30 metres by Monday evening. This surge, fueled by steady inflows from the catchment areas, necessitated a controlled discharge of excess water through the gradual opening of the dam shutters, a process initiated on the night of August 2.

Displacement and Infrastructure Disruptions

The recent deluge has impacted local connectivity and housing, leading to the following developments in the district:

• A total of 110 individuals, including 40 men, 51 women, and 19 children, are currently housed in eight active relief camps.
• The administration operates four camps in Muvattupuzha taluk, with Kunnathunad and Kothamangalam hosting two each.
• Four additional camps were decommissioned as local conditions improved during the day.
• The Manikandanchal causeway, a vital link across the Pooyamkutty river for tribal hamlets like Kallelimedu and Manikandanchal, was submerged Monday morning before receding in the afternoon.

Government Response at Chellanam

Higher Education Minister Roji M. John, the district coordinator, conducted an inspection of the Chellanam grama panchayat on Monday. Accompanied by Kochi MLA Muhammed Shiyas, the Minister assessed the damage caused by the combined forces of heavy rain and coastal sea surges. Addressing the recurring nature of these events, Minister John confirmed that the government intends to begin construction on a permanent seawall to mitigate future risks to the coastal community.

Source: The Hindu — National