Torrential rains have wreaked havoc by flooding the southern state of Kerala, claiming hundreds of lives. The flooding showers have paralyzed most parts of the state, resulting in the closure of the most functional Cochin International Airport, making travelers stranded.
As per the latest reports, approx. 164 people so far, since August 8 have been killed due to the deluge. Along with this, more than 2 lakhs of people have been shifted to relief camps.
The worst part is that as of now also, Skymet Weather does not foresee any major relief coming in terms of reduction in rains. The offshore trough that has played a crucial role in pouring the devastating rains continues to linger from Konkan to Kerala coast.
Hence, moderate to heavy with very heavy rains are likely to continue over the state which would further deteriorate the situation. These conditions are expected to continue for the next 48 hours thereafter, a marginal reduction in rainfall activity can be anticipated.
Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, after holding a high-level meeting with the state Chief Minister has announced an emergency grant of Rs. 500 crores to the flood-hit state. PM Modi is on a visit to Kerala and has landed in Kochi early morning today to take an aerial survey of the flood-ravaged districts. However, the survey was annulled in view of inclement weather conditions.
Prior to this, Telangana’s Chief Minister, K Chandrasekhar Rao, on Friday has also announced financial aid of Rs. 25 Crores to the flood-battered state. The Chief Minister of other counter parting states, like Andhra Pradesh, Punjab, and Delhi have also stepped forward to help the state financially by granting Rs. 10 Crore each.
In addition to this, the state is already contending with vector-borne diseases such as dengue and chikungunya and now, the threat of water-borne diseases also looms large. Health experts have issued a warning of an outbreak of cholera, typhoid, hepatitis and leptospirosis. Hence, caution is advisable.
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