While several local bodies across the State are grappling with waterlogging and severe flooding due to heavy rains, a local body in the hilly district of Idukki has successfully tackled its years-long flooding issue by proactively clearing streams and culverts.

According to officials of Kumily panchayat — the gateway to the famous tourist destination of Thekkady in the Periyar Tiger Reserve (PTR)—the town and its nearby settlements have suffered prolonged waterlogging for several years. During heavy downpours, the Kumily town, Valiyakandam, First Mile, and Periyar Colony consistently experienced severe inundation in the past.

However, despite the panchayat area receiving nearly 100 mm of rainfall on the morning of August 1, no waterlogging was reported in the town or surrounding settlements. Kumily panchayat president M.M. Varghese noted that, considering the severity of past flooding in the town and residential areas, the panchayat initiated cleaning operations as early as March.

“Small roadside shops set up along the thoroughfare were directly dumping waste into the culverts, obstructing the flow of water. We cleared these encroachments and desilted the culverts. Additionally, as the Kottarakkara–Dindigul National Highway passes through Kumily town, we engaged directly with National Highway officials to clear the culverts under the highway,” the president said.

Cleared debris

He further stated that bamboo debris and other waste had been obstructing the smooth flow of water in the Anavachal stream in Thekkady, located under the PTR. “The panchayat cleared the bamboo and debris to ensure smooth water flow through the stream. Additionally, we identified certain commercial establishments discharging waste into the stream and took strict action against them,” he added.

Local business owners have welcomed the initiative. “For the past several years, whenever it rained, my shop was flooded, causing severe financial losses. But this year, no waterlogging occurred in the town,” said a local vendor.

Kumily panchayat secretary R. Ashokkumar confirmed that the clearing of streams and culverts across the panchayat limits was completed with the support of officials and the Local Self-Government department (LSGD) engineering wing. “In previous years, the local body faced significant challenges following flooding in Kumily town and nearby settlements. However, no such incidents have been reported this year,” the official said.

Published - August 04, 2026 08:32 pm IST