Vegetation clearing has begun along a three-kilometre stretch of the Periyar Valley main canal bund road between Chengara and Chemmeenkuth in Kothamangalam after overgrown grass and undergrowth were reported to be obstructing drivers’ visibility and increasing accident risks.
The clearing work has been under way for two days, according to a Mathrubhumi report. It follows coverage published on Monday that highlighted the danger posed by vegetation growing on both sides of the road. The road is described as being damaged in several places, with the overgrowth creating an additional hazard for vehicles.
A decision to begin the clearing on October 15 was taken at a meeting attended by elected representatives and officials last month. The work is part of a larger package covering canal repairs, cleaning and vegetation removal. An amount of ₹7.5 crore has been allocated for these activities, the report said.
The Periyar Valley canal is scheduled to be opened on December 1, and the maintenance works are expected to be completed before that date. The clearing is therefore being carried out alongside preparations for canal operations rather than as a standalone road improvement project.
The bund road’s condition has raised safety concerns because drivers may have limited sight of approaching vehicles where vegetation has grown close to the carriageway. The report did not specify whether the road itself will be repaired as part of the current package, or identify the agency executing the clearing work.
The immediate work underway covers the Chengara-to-Chemmeenkuth section. Further details on the completion of canal repairs, cleaning and other maintenance activities were not provided in the report. The December 1 canal opening remains the next stated milestone for the wider works.
