Thiruvananthapuram, India, Aug. 1 (ANI): In view of the heavy rainfall and the worsening rain-related situation across Kerala, Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan has been in constant contact with the Revenue Minister and other ministers coordinating relief efforts in various districts and with local administrations.
According to the Chief Minister’s Office, Satheesan has also spoken with MLAs and other public representatives from the worst-affected areas to review the situation and oversee relief and rescue operations.
As of 6 p.m., six deaths had been officially confirmed, while six people remained missing. Search operations are continuing with the participation of multiple agencies, supported by public representatives and local residents.
A total of 65 relief camps have been opened across the state, sheltering 1,465 people. Arrangements have been made to relocate additional residents to relief camps if necessary. Seventeen homes have been destroyed, while 127 others have sustained partial damage.
The reduction in rainfall by Saturday evening in areas that had received heavy rain earlier in the day has provided some relief. Boats have been brought in from other districts to strengthen rescue operations as needed. Water inflows into various dams are being closely monitored, and residents of hilly areas have been advised to remain vigilant.
The Anakkampoyil area in Kozhikode district recorded 340 mm (13.4 inches) of rainfall over the past 35 hours, while Meppadi in Wayanad district received 177 mm (7 inches) during the same period.
The state government said it is fully prepared to respond to any emergency and urged residents to strictly follow instructions issued by the government and district administrations.
The government also assured that adequate financial assistance would be provided to the families of those who lost their lives, as well as to people who have lost their homes, crops, and livelihoods. Those injured in rain-related incidents will receive the best possible medical treatment. The government said it would stand by those affected and provide all necessary support during this difficult period.
Meanwhile, the Travancore Devaswom Board has advised devotees planning to visit Sabarimala on Aug. 2 and 3 for Niraputhari to reconsider their pilgrimage because of heavy rain, flooding in Pampa, and the risk of landslides. A security alert has also been issued for the area. (ANI)
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