Normal life affected, institutions closed in rain-hit Valparai

Following heavy rains, the Sholayar dam, which reached its full reservoir level on July 1, began to overflow. With water levels in both Vazhaithottam and Koolangal rivers increasing, people living along the river banks were forced to move to safer locations. 

During the 24-hours ending on Monday morning, Sholayar recorded 98 mm of rains, Valparai 78 mm, Chinnakallar 110 mm and Neerar 94 mm. Tourists who came to Monkey Falls on Monday were turned away due to flooding. The Forest department barred tourists, warning them the gushing water would bring along pieces of wood and stones which may result in injury. 

Meanwhile, a huge transformer fell on Pollachi-Palladam road near Chavady Check post in Pollachi causing traffic disruption. The transformer collapsed due to the rains that was accompanied by strong winds. No one was injured as vehicles weren’t passing by the way when the transformer fell. 

Several residential areas witnessed power outages lasting for a considerable time as a result. Most of the arterial Palladam road, Udumalai road and Pollachi main road witnessed water logging following the rains. There were also intermittent rains recorded in few other places in Coimbatore district on Monday.