Boulder Fall: Heavy Vehicles, Including Tourist Buses, Banned on Valparai Ghat Road

Coimbatore: Tourist buses and vans have been barred from the Valparai hill road until ongoing repair works are completed, following a major boulder fall near the second hairpin bend on the Valparai–Pollachi ghat road on October 20. The repairs are expected to take approximately five days, although the restriction will remain in force until the work is completed.

The boulder fell onto the road on Tuesday, disrupting traffic and leaving several motorists and passengers stranded near the Aliyar toll plaza. Travellers, including families with children, reportedly faced difficulties while waiting for the route to be cleared and raised concerns over the lack of food and drinking water during the prolonged wait.

The Highways Department cleared the fallen boulders on Wednesday and restored traffic movement. However, the impact damaged roadside parapet walls and crash barriers. Repair teams are now working to rebuild the damaged safety structures, prompting officials to restrict larger tourist vehicles from using the route.

A senior official said two-wheelers, cars and government buses that regularly operate on the hill road would be permitted. Tourist buses and vans, however, would not be allowed until the parapet wall construction and associated repair works are completed.

The affected stretch is narrow, making it difficult for larger vehicles to manoeuvre safely while repairs are under way. Officials are also concerned that drivers of tourist vehicles who are unfamiliar with the steep and winding terrain may face difficulties navigating the stretch, increasing the risk of accidents.

The restrictions are intended to ensure the safety of road users during the repair period. Tourists planning to visit Valparai are advised to take note of the restrictions and make suitable travel arrangements until the authorities allow larger tourist vehicles to use the hill road again.