Kerala sends SOS to Centre as rains wreaks havoc killing 20
Kerala sends SOS to Centre as rains wreaks havoc killing 20 At least 18 persons were killed as heavy rain and landslides hit parts of Kerala here on Thursday, officials said. Around 600 cusecs of water was discharged from the Idamalayar dam, with the water level rising to 169.95 metres against the full reservoir level (FRL) of 169m. The water level at Idukki dam was 2,398 at 8 am, 50 feet against the FRL of 2,403 feet. The administration has been put on high alert. A National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) team has been moved to Kozhikode. Two teams have been sought from the Centre for north Kerala. As a precaution, the Cochin International Airport Limited has informed that till 2.30 pm all incoming flights will be diverted to other destinations, while there will be no problem for outgoing flights. Meanwhile, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan said rain has caused extensive damage to life and properties across the state. “We have sought six additional teams of National Disaster Response Force,” he added. “Since more rain is forecast, as a matter of abundant caution, it has been decided to postpone the upcoming Nehru boat race on the Punnamada lake. The new dates will be announced by the organisers,” said Vijayan. “Since this episode has led to widespread loss and destruction, the requirement of money is there and we call upon all who are willing to donate. They can do it to the Chief Minister’s Fund,” Vijayan said. -PTC News
