Harrisons Malayalam Installs Weather Prediction Systems in Wayanad Estates

WAYANAD:
Harrisons Malayalam Ltd (HML), in partnership with Bengaluru-based AgriHawk Technologies has installed weather prediction systems in its Wayanad tea estates. The project is aimed at reducing the risk of future landslides.

In the first phase, 35 Fyllo weather systems are being deployed across 11 estates, including the severely affected Sentinel Rock Estate. The ₹55 lakh investment will help provide early warnings and real-time weather data to the Government Disaster Management Authority and estate managers. A second phase – planned in collaboration with government bodies – will add another 25 systems.

“Climate-related disruptions are a growing concern in plantation regions. This investment is a step towards better risk management and operational continuity,” said Cherian M. George, CEO of Harrisons Malayalam Ltd.

HML has also worked with Rajagiri Transcend (Rajagiri School of Social Sciences) and NGOs to support affected workers and families. In May 2025, the company launched Karuthal Care with the District Disaster Management Authority to enhance monsoon preparedness across the region.

In July last year, landslides in the Chooralmala and Mundakai areas of the Sentinel Rock Estate led to damages estimated at ₹13 crore. This included destruction of plantation areas, labour lines, water systems, and tourism infrastructure. The estate is currently operating at just 40% capacity and under restricted hours.