The Chief Minister of Keralam, V D Satheesan, reported that the number of fatalities linked to heavy rains, flooding, and landslides has increased to 15. Seven individuals remain unaccounted for as of August 3. Following a meeting with district collectors in Thiruvananthapuram, he confirmed the issuance of Rs 10,000 as funeral expenses for the deceased. Satheesan directed the Agriculture Department to prepare a proposal aimed at revising compensation for the damage incurred to agricultural land due to the extreme weather.

According to Satheesan, around 165 hectares of farmland have been adversely affected, impacting approximately 3,596 farmers. As of 9 am, about 11,018 individuals are taking refuge in 316 relief camps across the state. Notably, two fatalities occurred in Kottayam’s Poonjar constituency, with a child reported to have drowned in a tank at Puthuppally. Additional deaths were confirmed in Idukki, Malappuram, Kannur, and Kozhikode.

The Chief Minister noted the significance of immediate financial support to flood victims. He stated that those returning home from relief camps, where homes have been inundated, will receive Rs 10,000 as immediate assistance. Furthermore, he addressed the low compensation currently offered for crop loss, indicating that the Agriculture Department will seek revisions during the next Cabinet meeting to provide more adequate support.

Government Response to Flooding and Landslides

In an effort to manage the ongoing crisis, the government has deployed teams from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) in affected regions such as Pathanamthitta and Kottayam. The Chief Minister articulated that immediate assistance is being coordinated, with further teams on standby for rapid deployment. Helicopters equipped for rescue operations and necessary personnel from the Defence Security Corps have also been prepared for assistance.

An emergency meeting involving the State Disaster Management Authority and related officials was convened to evaluate the flood situation across the districts. While some areas in Pathanamthitta continue to experience high water levels, the overall condition is reportedly under control. Rescue operations are being supported by fishing boats from Kollam, with food packets prepared for distribution.

State Electricity Minister Sunny Joseph provided an update on the restoration of electricity services in the affected areas. Of the 4,80,614 disrupted connections, approximately 92 per cent have been restored swiftly. Minister Joseph informed that efforts are ongoing to repair damaged transformers and poles, particularly in districts where the impact was most severe, including Pathanamthitta and Kannur.

Misinformation Regarding Dam Water Release Addressed

During the briefing, Chief Minister Satheesan refuted allegations that substantial amounts of water are being released from the state’s dams, which has contributed to the flooding. He clarified that the water levels in major reservoirs are below full capacity and urged the public not to panic over circulating misinformation. The government is prepared to take action against those spreading false reports, as they can lead to unnecessary anxiety during a challenging time.

Satheesan emphasised that the reservoirs currently show adequate storage levels, with Idukki at 38.91 per cent and Idamalayar at 46.64 per cent, among others. The government continues to monitor the situation closely and maintain communication with the public to dispel any concerns regarding water management. The commitment to transparency and accurate information is paramount during this crisis.

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