NEWS – ‘Dam burst effect’ caused Wayanad landslide: Experts

HIGHLIGHTS

– Damming effect triggered massive landslides on July 30

– Heavy rainfall (over 570 mm in three days) caused water accumulation downstream

– Cloudburst broke the barrier, leading to a deluge of water rushing downhill

Impact of Landslides

– Huge devastation in the region

– 231 bodies and 221 body parts recovered

– 118 persons still missing

Climate Change

– Altered rainfall patterns in Wayanad and Idukki districts

– Shift towards cloudburst-type rainfall, leading to rapid water flow downstream

Safety Assessment and Recommendations

– Landslide-affected areas of Pujarimattam and Chooralmala assessed by expert committee

– Regions along the river in Punjarimattom continue to be danger zones

– Avoid residing in these areas

– Government to decide on permitting habitation in Chooralmala region

Homestay Tourism and Rehabilitation

– Renowned environmentalist Madhav Gadgil recommends Goa’s model of homestay tourism for Wayanad

– Proper implementation of rehabilitation required

– Management of mining activities should be handed over to local communities

Geological Survey Findings

– Heavy rainfall-induced “damming effect” caused massive earthfall

– Detailed studies, including soil testing and seismic stability gauging, underway