Extreme changes in climate following the floods of 2018 may be one reason accelerating the degradation of the Punalur suspension bridge, a protected monument and a prime tourist attraction in Kollam district.
The imposing structure constructed by Travancore king Ayiliyam Thirunal Rama Varma in 1877 was renovated with the sturdy ‘kampakam’ ( Hopea parviflora) wood in 2016. At present, a portion of the wooden platform has developed fissures and the Department of Archaeology will soon commence conservation measures to protect the structure.
“Kampakam tree is usually not vulnerable to sun or rain, but a range of factors, including temperature fluctuations, moisture level and changes in the evaporation rates of the Kallada river, can impact its durability. In normal course, it’s very unlikely for kampakam planks to develop cracks,” says E. Dinesan, director, Department of Archeology.
