Kerala Floods Claim Eight Lives, Search for Missing Continues

Thiruvananthapuram, August 2: Kerala Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan confirmed on Sunday that the state has witnessed 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, ministers responsible for the districts, and district administrations regarding the disaster caused by heavy rainfall in the state.”

He mentioned that cleanup operations have commenced in flood-affected areas and urged political workers and volunteer organizations to participate in these efforts, assuring that full support will be provided by the government.

Additionally, Chief Minister Satheesan reported 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, and 196 houses have suffered partial damage.

He assured that the state government will ensure assistance for the families of the deceased and those who have lost their homes and livelihoods.

Satheesan emphasized the need for vigilance in hilly areas. “Although the rainfall has decreased, preparations are in place to handle any emergencies. Elected representatives and volunteers are actively engaged in relief efforts. Government arrangements can be contacted for any needs,” he added.

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, sudden 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), with red alerts for the Moojiyar, Kallarukutti, Erattayar, Lower Periyar, and Peringalkuthu dams, while an orange alert has been issued for the Kuttayi dam.

Earlier, on Saturday morning, the IMD had formally issued a red alert for Pathanamthitta, Idukki, and other districts in Kerala. However, by then, heavy rainfall had already wreaked havoc in the region, leading to a disaster.

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