As the road-widening work on the Kochi-Dhanushkodi National Highway continues to cause hours-long traffic blocks on the route to Munnar, Idukki District Collector Dineshan Cheruvatt has issued a temporary ban on the road-widening works.
The order, issued under the Disaster Management Act, states that the administration received multiple reports of severe traffic blockages. “Road-widening activities involving heavy machinery, occurring alongside the movement of tourist vehicles, pose a major threat to travellers. Consequently, all widening work must be suspended until further notice,” said the order.
The Collector also directed the Idukki District Police Chief, the Devikulam Sub-Collector, and the Devikulam Tehsildar to monitor the situation and report on actions taken by the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI).
According to officials, the Pallivasal-Munnar stretch witnessed massive congestion during the Christmas holidays, leaving tourists trapped in their vehicles for three to four hours. Following these repeated traffic snarls, tourism stakeholders urged the district administration to take immediate action to resolve the gridlock.
The sudden surge in visitors follows an early onset of winter in Munnar. On December 20, the hill station recorded sub-zero temperatures, drawing tourists from across the globe to experience the chilly weather. This inflow ultimately led to the current traffic crisis.
Published – December 31, 2025 07:12 pm IST
