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**Headline: Monsoon Rains Heighten Landslide Fears in Idukki Over Illegal Check-Dam**

**IDUKKI, May 24, 2025** – The arrival of the monsoon season is exacerbating fears among residents of Bison Valley panchayat in Idukki, Kerala, due to the presence of a check-dam on the Chokramudi hills. Locals fear the dam, built on land previously under illegal possession, poses a significant landslip threat to the valley below.

The property, reclaimed by the state government, still houses the check-dam which is now seen as a major hazard. According to Baiju Balakrishnan of the Chokramudi Protection Council, heavy rainfall has already been impacting the area, causing widespread anxiety. “The people have repeatedly demanded the demolition of the check-dam on the hills, but no action has been taken,” said Mr. Balakrishnan.

Despite orders from Idukki District Collector V. Vigneshwari in April to inspect and remove the dam, residents claim no progress has been made. The Collector’s order established a special team led by the Devikulam Subcollector, comprised of various engineering and geology experts.

Bison Valley panchayat secretary N. Suni confirmed that the panchayat has urged the district administration to address the issue due to mounting public pressure. However, the panchayat reports a lack of updates from the district administration regarding the dam’s removal.

The Chokramudi Protection Council, backed by local tribal communities, plans to stage a protest in front of the Bison Valley village office. They highlight the dam’s dimensions – 20 metres long, 10 metres wide, and four metres deep – warning of devastating consequences if it triggers a landslip.

A Special Investigation Team (SIT) report led by K. Sethuraman, Director of the Police Training College, also warned of the potential danger. The report stated that a landslip could destroy the check-dam, sending debris into the valley and causing significant damage to lives and property. The community awaits action from the authorities before disaster strikes.

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