Travel Alert: Vehicle Movement to Nilgiris and Valparai Restricted from 6 PM to 7 AM Amid Heavy Rain Alert and Landslides

Coimbatore: A major landslide on the Mettupalayam–Ooty Road on Friday night trapped a TNSTC bus and killed its driver on the spot, prompting the Coimbatore District Administration to issue a public safety advisory amid forecasts of very heavy rainfall.

While the bus passengers were rescued, traffic remained halted on both sides of the road through the night as rescue operations continued. Tourists, students and other passengers stranded in vehicles were safely evacuated and sheltered at a private hall in Mettupalayam, where food and essential supplies were provided.

With the India Meteorological Department forecasting very heavy rainfall in Coimbatore district, the administration has warned of possible landslides, falling trees, rockfalls and sudden flooding. The public has been advised to avoid ghat roads from Mettupalayam to Udhagamandalam via Coonoor and Kotagiri, and from Pollachi to Valparai, where landslides have occurred at various locations.

Residents and tourists have also been urged to stay away from waterfalls, rivers, streams, dams, lakes, flooded roads and low-lying areas, and avoid visiting public places and tourist destinations unless necessary. All vehicle movements, including TNSTC services, to the Nilgiris and Valparai have been stopped from 6 pm to 7 am, except for essential and emergency vehicles. The public has been advised to avoid touching electric poles and wires during rainfall and follow official instructions.

For emergency assistance, residents can contact the District Emergency Operations Centre at toll-free number 1077 or 0422-2306051. The Coimbatore Corporation Commissioner's office can be reached at 0422-2302323, with WhatsApp assistance at 81900-00200. The District Administration has urged the public to remain prepared for the northeast monsoon and avoid panic.