Thiruvananthapuram, August 2: Kerala’s Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan confirmed on Sunday that the state has recorded eight fatalities due to rain-related disasters, with 13 individuals injured and eight still missing. He assured financial assistance for families who have lost members, homes, and livelihoods.
In a post on the social media platform X, the Chief Minister stated, “Discussions are ongoing with the revenue minister, district ministers, and district administrations regarding the disaster caused by heavy rainfall in the state.”
He reported that cleanup operations have commenced in flood-affected areas and urged political activists and volunteer organizations to participate in these efforts. “The government will provide full support,” he added.
Additionally, Chief Minister Satheesan mentioned that, according to the latest figures, 5,792 people have been relocated to 209 relief camps. A total of 27 houses have been completely destroyed, while 196 have suffered partial damage.
He reassured that the state government will ensure assistance for the families of the deceased and those who have lost their homes and livelihoods.
“Vigilance must be maintained in hilly areas. Although the rainfall has decreased, preparations are in place to tackle any emergencies. Elected representatives and volunteers are actively engaged in relief efforts. Government arrangements can be contacted for any needs,” he stated.
Meanwhile, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an orange alert for 12 districts in Kerala, including Pathanamthitta, Alappuzha, Kottayam, Ernakulam, Idukki, Thrissur, Palakkad, Malappuram, Kozhikode, Wayanad, Kannur, and Kasaragod, warning of heavy rainfall, flash floods, landslides, and flooding in roads and neighborhoods.
Furthermore, red and orange alerts have been issued for dams under the Kerala State Electricity Board (KSEB). Red alerts have been declared for the Moojiyar, Kallarukutty, Erattayar, Lower Periyar, and Peringalkuthu dams, while an orange alert is in place for the Kuttayi dam.
Earlier, on Saturday morning, the IMD had formally issued a red alert for Pathanamthitta, Idukki, and other districts in Kerala. By then, heavy rainfall had already wreaked havoc in the region, leading to a disaster.
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S.A.K./A.S.
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