T’puram: Authorities tightened safety measures along the Varkala coast after rough sea conditions triggered high waves at Papanasam and Kappil beaches, while heavy rain in the region forced the evacuation of 23 people.Tourism police and lifeguards prohibited tourists and locals from entering the sea, warning that ignoring safety instructions could prove dangerous. Officials said powerful waves continued to crash onto the shore despite a reduction in rainfall during the day and cautioned that sudden surges could occur without warning.Lifeguards intensified surveillance along the coastline and urged visitors to maintain a safe distance from the water. Ropes erected to prevent people from venturing into the sea were damaged by the waves in several places, making crowd management more challenging. Authorities said those arriving at Papanasam to perform traditional rituals, including bali and tharpanam, were allowed access only under strict safety supervision.At Kappil, where the sea meets the backwaters, strong currents and rising water levels prompted officials to impose similar restrictions. Lifeguards continued to monitor the area closely as the rough sea persisted.Meanwhile, rising water levels in Vamanapuram River following heavy rain in the upper catchment areas led authorities to shift five families comprising 23 people from Vaidyanmukku in Kizhuvilam panchayat to a relief camp opened at Govt LP School in Padanilam.Revenue officials said water also entered low-lying areas at Thottavaram in Attingal municipality, but the situation had not warranted evacuation. They added that no major damage had been reported elsewhere in Chirayinkeezhu taluk.Several stretches, including the road connecting Janardhanapuram and Papanasam Hill near Kakkod Mukku, remained waterlogged, while internal roads at Kuraykkanni and Vilakkulam were also inundated.
