Thiruvananthapuram: The sudden heavy rains in the past few days have raised the risk of another deluge in Kerala similar to last year. The warning was given by the Central Water Commission. Meanwhile, the total death toll in the state from landslides, heavy floods, and electrocution mounted to 22.
Reports of a huge tragedy is coming from the hilly district of Wayanad where a massive landslide swept away a Temple, Mosque, couple of houses and vehicles in Meppadi. Forty persons are feared to be trapped in the debris and rescue operations cannot reach the area as it is inaccessible due to cave-ins along the way.
The government has announced red alert in nine northern districts of Kerala. Chief Minister announced the alert after a high profile meeting with the officials. He has asked everyone living near flood prone area to shift to safer places. The Army has been pressed into rescue operations.
The Chief Minister announced orange alert in Kottayam, Alappuzha, and Pathanamthitta while Thiruvananthapuram and Kollam are given yellow alert.
Meanwhile, Electricity Minister, M. M. Mani, said that there is no need for opening major dams as the water level in these dams are low.
The government also cancelled the Nehru Trophy Boat Race due to heavy rains and flooding.
This is the second day of incessant rains and strong winds lashing the state. 12 persons lost their lives today since morning. Around 23,000 people have been shifted to relief camps.
The Cochin International Airport has been closed till Sunday because of waterlogging.
Kerala which is still suffering from the consequences of last year’s floods finds itself facing another deluge. However, the people of Kerala are bracing themselves for such a grim situation. Landslides are becoming a serious threat to lives and people living in hilly regions are at risk.
