Incessant rains and winds disrupted life in many parts of Kerala on Tuesday (May 28), submerging roads, various lanes and uprooting trees. Many streams and rivers are also overflowing, reported Manorama News. High tides and rough seas are also reported in the state's coastal areas. Therefore, tourism activities are suspended in various popular spots of the state. Tourists should check weather alerts and maps before venturing out, said authorities. Tourist spots in the hilly areas of Kottayam were closed on Tuesday due to the possibility of landslides.
Tourist places closed down
1) Kottayam's tourist spots including Ilaveezhapoonchira, Illikkalkallu and Marmala were closed on Tuesday. Night travel is also prohibited on the Erattupetta - Vagamon road.
2) There has been a travel ban to the Ponmudi hill station in Thiruvananthapuram, since May 18. The restrictions will be on till authorities announce otherwise.
3) Night travel through the hilly areas of the Idukki district has been prohibited. To ensure safety in the tourist areas of the district, restrictions will be imposed at centres around waterfalls and water bodies. Off-road safaris are also strictly prohibited.
4) Tourists and others are advised not to visit beaches as there is a chance for strong waves.
5) All tourist centres in Thrissur district will remain closed due to heavy rains. These include the popular waterfalls Athirappilly and Vazhachal. Vilangan Hills, Poomala Dam, Kalasamala, Cheppara, Vazhani Dam, Peechi Dam, Enamavu Nehru Park, Snehatheeram Beach, Chavakkad Beach and Thumboormozhi River Garden are some of the other prominent spots that will remain closed.
Restrictions in Gavi
In Gavi, only those who book Kerala Forest Department Corporations's Vandiperiyar - Vallakadavu daily tour are allowed to enter. Other tourists won't be allowed to visit the spot due to rain.
A portion of Varkala cliff collapses
Just like every year, a portion of the famed Papanasam Cliff near the Varkala helipad collapsed in the rain a few days ago. While no restrictions for tourists are in place yet, the authorities are trying to put safety measures in place to avoid visitors venturing into the area.
(This is a developing story, updates will be added from time to time)