The death toll from rain-related incidents in Keralam has now reached 15, with seven individuals reported missing, according to Chief Minister V D Satheesan. He emphasised that while the situation is largely under control, certain areas, particularly Pathanamthitta, have been severely impacted. The Chief Minister held an emergency meeting with the State Disaster Management Authority to assess the unfolding situation and ensure a coordinated response.

To support rescue efforts, several initiatives have been implemented, including the deployment of 14 fishing boats from Kollam to the badly affected Chengannur. Moreover, two helicopters from Sulur, Tamil Nadu, have arrived in Thiruvananthapuram to facilitate aerial operations. Additional resources include teams from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), with one team in Pathanamthitta and two in Kottayam. Two further teams are expected to join the operations from Arakkonam.

The government has also placed units from the Indo-Tibetan Border Police and Defence Security Corps on standby, prepared for rapid deployment should the need arise. Chief Minister Satheesan indicated that logistical arrangements, including food packet distribution through both air and ground teams, are fully prepared.

Relief Camps Established for Displaced Residents

As of 9 am on Monday, 316 relief camps have been set up across Keralam, accommodating over 11,000 individuals who have been displaced due to the floods. The Chief Minister provided a district-wise overview of the fatalities, noting three deaths in Kottayam, two in Idukki, two in Kollam, four in Malappuram, and one each in Vizhinjam, Muthalapozhi, Kannur, and Kozhikode. In addition, numerous individuals are still unaccounted for, with several missing across different districts, contributing to concerns for their safety.

Preliminary assessments reveal substantial crop damage affecting over 164.98 hectares and impacting 3,596 farmers. Chief Minister Satheesan indicated that these numbers may escalate as further evaluations are conducted. He also urged citizens to refrain from believing unfounded claims circulating on social media regarding water release from major reservoirs, which are creating unnecessary panic among the populace.

Satheesan reassured residents that all significant dams are operating within safe limits, and measures are in place to handle public misinformation. In light of the current crisis, the government is providing immediate financial assistance of Rs 10,000 for funeral expenses to the families of those who have died, as well as Rs 10,000 for households returning home after floodwaters have receded.

Compensation and Future Preparedness Measures Discussed

The state government has committed to compensating families of deceased individuals with Rs 8 lakh each. Furthermore, the assistance for houses completely destroyed in major landslides has been raised from Rs 10 lakh to Rs 12 lakh to address the significant loss suffered by those affected. Discussions regarding additional compensation for agricultural losses are anticipated in the next Cabinet meeting.

Chief Minister Satheesan described the situation as a sudden flash flood event, attributing it to extreme rainfall that occurred overnight, catching many individuals off guard. Areas recorded rainfall of over 300 mm, with Vadasserikkara particularly affected by nearly 350 mm, leaving minimal time for evacuation measures.

Efforts in rescue, relief, and preparedness are ongoing, as the situation continues to unfold. Authorities are keeping close track of flood conditions, the status of missing persons, and the extent of damage across affected sectors. The government remains vigilant and committed to supporting its citizens in this challenging time.

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