Letters to The Editor — July 9, 2026 - The HinduPublished - July 09, 2026 12:24 am ISTMud deluge in WayanadThe Kerala government’s line, that is to blame only the contractor for the tragedy at the Wayanad tunnel-road project, reflects the familiar politico-bureaucratic tendency to evade responsibility. The government’s role is not merely to issue directives but also to ensure that they are implemented on time. Identifying the officials responsible for each task — and those who failed in their duties — is not difficult. It is now for the government and, if necessary, the judiciary to ensure that those responsible are held accountable.P.R.V. Raja,Pandalam, KeralaAs a science paper, “A global perspective on a bioengineering approach to landslide mitigation using bamboo diversity” (2024), highlights, bamboo is an effective natural solution for slope stabilisation and landslide mitigation due to its extensive root and rhizome systems, which bind soil and improve slope stability. Species such as Melocanna baccifera, Bambusa bambos, Dendrocalamus hamiltonii, and Schizostachyum dullooa have been widely used in bioengineering and ecological restoration, particularly in high-rainfall, landslide-prone regions. Their rapid growth, adaptability, and proven success in countries such as India and Nepal make bamboo a sustainable and cost-effective option for erosion control, riverbank protection, and disaster risk reduction.V. Subramaniam,ChennaiEV use, road safetySince there is no clear requirement for a driving licence for battery-operated two-wheelers, children are riding them without hesitation. The risk of accidents has increased. The government should set the minimum age for riding battery-operated two-wheelers at 18. Additionally, road safety should be taught in schools.Rajesh P. Kariya,Akola, MaharashtraFIFA matchThe 2026 FIFA World Cup has now entered a crucial stage. Amid the excitement, a talking point is the controversial round of 16 clash between Argentina and Egypt. Disputed decisions have reignited allegations of Argentina being favoured — an issue that gained prominence during the 2022 World Cup in Qatar. One hopes that the rest of the tournament will be free from controversiesC.K. Subramaniam,Navi MumbaiThe timeless parable of David and Goliath unfolded once again on football’s grandest stage as Argentina confronted an indomitable Egypt. For much of the contest, Egypt dictated not merely the tempo but also the psychology of the game. As the clock drifted towards an Egyptian masterpiece, Lionel Messi compressed an eternity into a fleeting moment of genius, reminding the world that legends possess the rare gift of rescuing history when it appears ready to choose another author.Vijay Singh Adhikari,Nainital, UttarakhandPublished - July 09, 2026 12:24 am ISTSign in to unlock member-only benefits!Access 10 free stories every monthSave stories to read laterAccess to comment on every storySign-up/manage your newsletter subscriptions with a single clickGet notified by email for early access to discounts & offers on our products${ ind + 1 } ${ device }Last active - ${ la }