Thiruvananthapuram: In Malappuram’s Anakkallu area, recent “explosion-like” sounds and tremors have sparked concerns among residents, prompting an investigation by the Kerala State Disaster Management Authority (KSDMA). The sounds, accompanied by mild tremors, were first noticed on October 17 and recurred on October 18 and 29. KSDMA, along with the District Disaster Management Authority, has since clarified that the phenomenon is not dangerous. Their site inspection—conducted by a team of geologists from the district and groundwater departments—revealed that the sounds stem from friction and cracking of rocks near the earth’s surface, a common geological occurrence in various parts of Kerala.
This rock-cracking phenomenon, attributed to natural shifts and groundwater usage, results from the displacement of rocks and the release of air trapped within underground cavities, often escaping through tube wells. Although cracks were observed in some nearby structures, KSDMA explained that these are more likely due to age-related structural weaknesses rather than the tremors themselves.
To further investigate, KSDMA has planned a detailed geophysical survey of the area and requested assistance from Kozhikode’s National Institute of Technology. Approximately 300 residents were temporarily relocated as a precautionary measure, following sounds at 9:15 pm, 10:15 pm, and 10:45 pm on Tuesday night, which triggered mild tremors within a 2-kilometer radius. Residents reported the sounds as reminiscent of nearby granite quarry explosions, with slight structural damage in certain homes. KSDMA reassured that residents could address any minor damages through repair assessments, reinforcing that the situation poses no imminent threat.
