Vadakara, Kozhikode: A fresh mudslide occurred at Mukkali on the national highway on Monday while construction work on a protective wall was under way, triggering concern among residents.

The incident happened around noon near the site where excavation was being carried out for the foundation of the protective wall. The area had already witnessed two landslides this year, following which construction of the protective wall was expedited.

The mudslide occurred while the workers at the site had gone for lunch, helping avert what could have been a major disaster. Several workers are engaged in construction activities at the site.

The latest incident has left two houses in a precarious condition. Residents fear the houses could be destroyed if another mudslide occurs.

Meanwhile, local representatives and residents blocked the national highway at Mukkali in protest against the alleged failure of National Highways Authority of India and revenue officials to visit the mudslide site.

The road blockade began around 4 pm, with protesters sitting on the road. They alleged that the highway authorities had failed to respond despite the severity of the mudslide.

The blockade was called off following police intervention after authorities assured the protesters that officials would visit the site.