Wayanad Tunnel Project

halted

The Wayanad tunnel infrastructure project links two sides: a South Portal on the Kozhikode side at Anakkampoyil, and a North Portal on the Wayanad side near Kalladi-Meppadi. The project experienced a landslide at the North Portal, where the entrance to the tunnel is located. An internal report by the sub-contractor Dilip Buildcon Limited revealed that the hillside above the North Portal was unstable and at risk of collapse prior to the landslide. The report highlighted issues such as loose silty soil, failing slope protection measures, inadequate drainage, and lack of early-warning instruments. Trial blasting was conducted despite these risks. The report recommended installation of gabion walls, protective matting, tarpaulin sheets, lined trenches for rainwater, and testing of soil nails and drainage holes. The project management halted work after the report and awaits government expert committee approval to resume.