Collector directs relief camps to open if rain persists for 48 hours in landslide-prone areas

Kochi: District collector G Priyanka directed officials to immediately open relief camps if landslide-prone areas experience continuous heavy rainfall for 48 hours. The directive was issued during an online review meeting chaired by the collector to evaluate monsoon preparedness in Ernakulam on Monday. Emphasising public safety amid strengthening monsoon rains, the collector ordered high vigilance and real-time data sharing with district disaster management authority (DDMA). Under the strict guidelines, residents evacuated to camps from landslide-threatened zones must not be allowed to return home until the rain completely stops for at least 24 consecutive hours. Village officers have been instructed to prepare an exact pre-verified list of buildings suitable for running relief camps. Additionally, they must collect and maintain the contact numbers of locals to ensure quick communication during emergencies. The meeting highlighted the need to monitor areas with local risks that are not currently included in the official landslide-prone list. Officials must compile separate data on vulnerable groups, including the elderly, children and persons with disabilities living in high-risk zones. Extensive awareness campaigns will also be launched to discourage unnecessary travel to these areas during heavy downpours. Additionally, the mining and geology department must inspect quarries in risk zones to ensure compliance with safety standards. Quarry operations must be strictly regulated on days with orange and red alerts. Residents are urged to report signs like ground subsidence or cracks immediately to District Emergency Operations Centre and DDMA.