Kerala ravaged by  floods – toll rises to 73

The state of Kerala is facing the worst ever flood situation due to a heavy monsoon( which is 30% above the normal) with cities and towns cut off and people rendered homeless. The toll mounted to 73 since August 9th and many more were missing in rain-related incidents throughout the state.

Kochi airport suspends operations

The Kochi International airport was closed due to the rain water flooding the runway and authorities suspended all operations till Saturday. Flights were diverted to Thiruvanathapuram and Coimbatore.

On Independence day, 15.8.2018. Kerala recorded the highest single day rainfall of 127.8 mm. Wayanad, Munnar, Idukki district are all facing emergency flooding and panic situations.

Rescue work in full swing

The Chief Minister of Kerala, Pinarayi Vijayan held emergency meetings to assess the ground situation even as army has stepped in many areas to assist rescue operations . The CM also spoke to the Prime Minister, asking for more men and material in this crisis.

The Navy has commenced airlift operations in Thrissur, Aluva, and Muvattupuzha areas. Reports say that 36 people have been rescued so far. 12 more teams of the National Disaster Response Force – six from Delhi and six from Gandhinagar – are being airlifted to Thiruvananthapuram, taking the total number of NDRF teams to 30.