Vaithiri (Wayanad): After months of waiting, two trailers with huge machines have started climbing the Wayanad pass. Both the trailers crossed the first turn of the pass. 14 employees in trailer and escort vehicles, representatives of Annamalai Transport Company, mechanics, two cranes each and ambulances, police, fire brigade, forest, KSEB, public works (national highway department) and motor vehicle departments are also accompanying. Thamarassery Dysp Tk. Ashraf, C.I.T.A. About 30 policemen led by Augustine came to provide security. Besides, the pass protection committee workers and local people are on the scene.
The trailers left around 11 pm. Many people came to watch the journey of the huge trailers. A trailer turned off during the trip but the problem was resolved.
Traffic on the pass is restricted till 5 am. No vehicle except ambulance will be allowed till morning. Vehicles are diverted at Chungat and Lakiti.
Industrial filter interchamber machines for Nestlé Company’s Nanjankod plant were shipped from South Korea to Chennai. Subsequently, on September 10, the Kozhikode district administration denied permission to the trailers that reached Attiwaram by road. Koilandi-Mangaluru road was suggested as an alternative route to Wayanad pass, but the trip was halted as it was not possible to go through the Murad bridge.
Vaithiri police blocking the road in Lakiti and diverting vehicles
A move to enter the Kannur-Mangalore route via Perampra and Nadapuram also had to be avoided due to practical issues. Later the Kozhikode district administration appointed a committee to study the possibility of further travel. The committee submitted its report on October 27. Finally, following 104 days of waiting, the trailers were allowed to cross the pass on the night of December 22.
