The Bailey bridge in Chooralmala, Wayanad, has been closed for public use after structural cracks were discovered near its pillar base on Thursday (June 26, 2025). Officials from the Revenue Department have linked the damage to soil erosion caused by two days of continuous rainfall in the Mundakkai and Chooralmala areas.

The bridge, considered a critical link in the hilly terrain, has now been barricaded, with traffic rerouted as a precautionary measure.

Bridge Stability Affected by Erosion and Past Landslide History

The Chooralmala region is already marked as landslide-prone, having witnessed a devastating landslide in 2024. Experts from the Public Works Department (PWD) and District Disaster Management Authority (DDMA) fear that the soil beneath the bridge may have shifted, weakening its foundation.

“We noticed cracks on the protective wall near the pillars after a visual inspection. Heavy downpour in the past 48 hours likely destabilised the soil,” said a senior Revenue official.

The Bailey bridge, constructed as a temporary but crucial structure post-2024 landslide recovery, now requires urgent structural assessment to prevent any potential collapse.

Traffic and Safety Measures in Place

Local authorities have diverted vehicles to alternate routes, and signage has been placed in nearby areas warning commuters and tourists. The District Collector has directed engineers to conduct a full safety audit, and the PWD is expected to submit a status report within 72 hours.

Police personnel have been deployed to the site to ensure that no civilian or vehicular movement occurs near the affected zone.

Residents Raise Concerns Over Monsoon Vulnerability

Residents of Mundakkai and Chooralmala have expressed concern over recurring infrastructure issues during the monsoon, pointing out that temporary structures like Bailey bridges are highly susceptible to damage in hilly, rain-heavy regions.

Locals have urged the government to expedite the construction of a permanent bridge in the area, highlighting the repeated disruptions to connectivity and safety risks.

Conclusion: Structural Stability Under Watch

With more rainfall predicted in the coming days, district officials are on high alert. The closure of the Bailey bridge serves as a reminder of the fragile infrastructure in disaster-hit areas of Wayanad and the pressing need for long-term resilience planning.

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