Panic has gripped residents of Rappal in Thrissur after a bund along the Kurumali river partially collapsed following heavy rains in the region.The breach, measuring around 15 metres in length and over six feet in depth, occurred after intense rainfall in recent days. Two large trees standing along the riverbank also fell into the river along with the bund, raising concerns about obstruction to water flow.With water levels rising, residents fear that the river could change course, increasing the risk of flooding in nearby houses. Locals said the fallen trees could block the natural flow of the river, directing water towards the damaged section and worsening the erosion.“The bund has weakened significantly after one side caved in. If it collapses further, hundreds of houses in the area could be affected,” residents said.The area has a history of flooding, with the river having changed course during the 2018 floods. Since then, many families have been temporarily relocating during heavy rains due to fear of inundation.Residents have demanded immediate temporary measures, including reinforcing the damaged stretch with sandbags and removing the fallen trees from the river. They have also called for permanent reconstruction of the bund.A complaint has been submitted to the District Collector and the Puthukkad MLA, urging urgent intervention to prevent a potential disaster. Published - June 09, 2026 07:53 pm IST