Flooding near Kannur University forces evacuations; relief efforts under way

Rescue teams evacuating residents from flood-hit areas near Thavakkara, Kannur, after heavy rainfall on May 30. | Photo Credit: S.K. MOHAN

Heavy rainfall triggered severe waterlogging on Edattupally Road leading to Kannur University in Thavakkara, inundating homes and forcing the evacuation of several families, mainly migrant workers.

The Kannur Corporation-led rescue operation is ongoing, with support from the Fire and Rescue Services and civic authorities. With no proper drainage to channel the accumulated rainwater, the main road and surrounding residential areas were submerged. Around 55 people were rescued and relocated to safer places.

Corporation officials, led by Mayor Muslih Madathil, former Mayor T.O. Mohanan, and councillors, coordinated the evacuation using dinghies and rescue teams. Among those evacuated were Tamil Nadu natives, who were taken to the railway station to return home. Others were relocated to relatives’ houses in Thalassery, Vaillyanoor, Mayyil, and Iritty. A relief camp has been set up at MTM School to accommodate the displaced.

The Mayor said that despite the severe flooding, many residents were reluctant to evacuate. Ward councillor Suresh Babu Elayavoor alleged that the flooding resulted from a blockage caused by recent cleaning work in the university stream.

In Chekchira, ward 10 of the Puzhathi zone, an eight-month pregnant woman, Hannah, was rescued by a Fire and Rescue Services team. Five families near the Pallikunnu bridge were also affected.

Widespread flooding was reported from Chekichira, Naluvayal, Kuruva, Neerchal, Anjukandy, Kakkad, Chalad, Palliyammoola, and Chala. The Kakkad river overflowed its banks, worsening the situation. In Valapattanam, a landslip caused a house wall to collapse. The temporary bus shelter erected at Puthiyatheru as part of traffic reforms also collapsed in the heavy rain.

With more rain forecast, the Corporation has urged residents in flood-prone areas to cooperate with evacuation efforts and remain alert.

Published - May 30, 2025 07:59 pm IST