With the northeast monsoon intensifying across Tamil Nadu, Tiruvannamalai collector K Tharpagaraj conducted an inspection at VOC Nagar on the Annamalaiyar Hills, where a deadly landslide claimed seven lives in December 2024. The collector reviewed precautionary steps being taken to prevent a repeat of the tragedy and assessed the area’s readiness for heavy rainfall.

During Thursday’s inspection, Tharpagaraj enquired about rain impact in recent weeks and the measures adopted to stabilize the hillside. He also discussed contingency plans for emergency evacuations, including safe shelter arrangements for residents in case of another landslide event. Officials confirmed that relief centres have already been set up in nearby schools to accommodate displaced families if needed.

“The inspection is complete, and further discussions will be held with concerned departments to assess preparedness and define next steps,” the collector told TNIE. He added that a team of geologists from Delhi is currently surveying the soil to identify potential weak zones and risks in the region.

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Authorities said that efforts to clear garbage and clean water channels in the hillside area are ongoing. “Only if the channels remain free of blockages can rainwater flow safely without causing damage,” an official said, stressing the importance of regular maintenance.

The collector was accompanied by Superintendent of Police M Sudhakar, District Revenue Officer R Ramapradeepan, District Forest Officer Sudhakar, and other senior officials. The inspection comes nearly a year after Cyclone Fengal triggered a massive 40-tonne rockslide that crushed a home in VOC Nagar, killing seven residents, including five children.

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