COIMBATORE: Heavy rains lashed several parts of the Nilgiris, causing widespread damage, particularly in the Coonoor region, due to multiple incidents of mudslides and tree falls on Friday.
Mud slips were reported in around 18 spots in Coonoor, while flood water entered some houses in the Model House locality, and two cars were trapped beneath a huge mound of mud in the farmers' market area. Vehicle movement at Burliar on the Coonoor-Mettupalayam National Highway was temporarily disrupted.
In some residential areas, such as Velankanni Nagar and TTK Road, electricity poles collapsed, resulting in power supply disruptions. Tree falls were reported in Coonoor, Ooty, Kotagiri and other areas. District Collector Lakshmi Bhavya Tanneeru inspected the affected areas and instructed officials to expedite restoration work.
Meanwhile, tourists were disappointed as the Nilgiri Mountain Railway (NMR) train service between Mettupalayam and Udhagamandalam was suspended midway on Friday after boulders and mud fell on the railway track following heavy rains.
The train started from Mettupalayam at 7.10 am. But the service was suspended midway and returned to Mettupalayam due to a block on the track. The ticket fare was refunded to tourists, who then left disappointed.
“Heavy rains caused earth slips at many places along the track. Boulders and trees have fallen on the track at various locations between Mettupalayam and Udagamandalam, obstructing the movement of trains. Hence, all train services, including holiday specials, have been cancelled and restoration works are being carried out,” said a statement from the railways.