Kerala is grappling with severe weather conditions as heavy rainfall continues to batter the state, leading to fatalities, widespread flooding, and significant disruptions to daily life.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued red alerts for several districts, including Idukki, Kozhikode, and Wayanad, indicating the possibility of extremely heavy rainfall and the risk of landslides. In response to the ongoing threat, authorities have closed educational institutions in multiple districts and imposed restrictions on night travel in vulnerable areas. The IMD has also warned of more heavy rainfall in the coming days, urging residents to remain vigilant.
The relentless downpours have caused rivers to swell, leading to flooding in low-lying areas. In Alappuzha, water has inundated paddy fields and homes, while in Pathanamthitta, the Pampa River’s rising water levels have submerged causeways, displacing residents. The Manimalayar River in Pathanamthitta has overflowed its banks, flooding houses in areas near Thiruvalla. Local authorities have set up relief camps to accommodate displaced residents. The heavy rains have also led to significant disruptions in rail services. Several trains have been delayed due to fallen trees and waterlogged tracks. The Parasuram Express and the Vande Bharat Express were among the trains affected, with delays of up to three hours. The railways have diverted some long-distance trains to alternative routes to mitigate the impact.
In addition to the flooding, the state is facing the threat of landslides. A landslide occurred on the Kottiyoor-Palchuram road in Kannur, prompting authorities to issue a cautionary advisory for travelers. Traffic has been banned on certain routes, and travelers are being diverted to safer paths. The ongoing monsoon fury has left residents in many districts grappling with the aftermath of the heavy rains. Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely and are coordinating with various agencies to provide relief and ensure public safety. Residents are advised to stay indoors, avoid unnecessary travel, and follow official advisories to stay safe during this challenging time.
As Kerala continues to face the brunt of the monsoon season, the need for improved infrastructure and disaster preparedness has become evident. The state government is urged to invest in resilient infrastructure, enhance early warning systems, and implement sustainable urban planning to mitigate the impact of such natural disasters in the future.
In the meantime, the focus remains on providing immediate relief to affected communities, restoring essential services, and ensuring the safety and well-being of all residents.
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