MoRTH Consultant Inspects Landslip Sites on Mettupalayam-Udhagamandalam Road

A consultant representing the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) conducted an inspection of landslip-affected sites along the Mettupalayam-Udhagamandalam Road via Coonoor on Wednesday, October 28, 2026. This assessment follows the partial suspension of traffic on the ghat road, which has been in effect since October 24, 2026.

Overview of Inspections

• Expert Review: A consultant from Uttarakhand, specializing in hilly terrain analysis, examined multiple locations where landslips occurred.
• Reporting: The consultant is expected to submit a formal report to the MoRTH Regional Officer in Chennai within the coming days.
• Scope of Damage: Reports indicate that landslips occurred at 25 different locations along the route. State Highways Department (NH wing) sources noted significant damage to the road infrastructure and embankments.

Current Status

Traffic remains suspended along the Mettupalayam-Burliyar-Katteri stretch of the ghat section. The decision to restrict movement is based on the ongoing risk of falling boulders at the Burliyar site and the need for structural repairs.

Incident Context

Between the nights of October 23 and 24, 2026, a significant landslip occurred at Burliyar. During this event, a Tamil Nadu State Transport Corporation (TNSTC) bus was caught under debris. Authorities reported that the bus driver was killed, while the conductor sustained injuries.

Updates regarding the resumption of traffic will be provided by local district administration and highways officials following the technical assessment report.